By Larry Halverson/Friends of Kootenay

The Mourning Cloak (butterfly) occurs throughout most of Canada. In B.C. it is most often found in open forests along wet areas where willows grow.

They are one of the first butterflies seen in the spring because they over-winter as adults – hibernating in tree cavities or under lose bark. They feed on tree sap and the nectar of willow catkins. 
They seek a mate in early spring and die shortly after laying their eggs. New adults emerge in August and fly into October.

Above photo: One of the most easily recognized butterflies. By Larry Halverson

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