Mourning Cloak
Nymphalis antiopa · Also known as: Camberwell beauty, mourning cloak butterfly
A velvety dark butterfly with cream wing borders. One of the few that can overwinter as an adult and surprise hikers on warm Assateague winter days.
Quick facts
| Group | Butterfly |
|---|---|
| Likelihood nearby | ★★★☆☆ |
| Habitats | Maritime forest, Mainland near OC, Assateague State Park, Assateague National Seashore |
| Seasons (this coast) | spring, fall, winter |
How to recognize them
- Large maroon-brown wings with a bright yellow border and blue spots near the margin.
- Camouflaged underside looks like bark; wings sound like rustling leaves when startled from a tree trunk.
Biology notes
- Adults hibernate in tree cavities and bark crevices; emerge on sunny late-winter and early-spring days.
- Caterpillars feed on willows, elms, and hackberries in mainland and park woodlots.
Where to see them around Ocean City
- Assateague maritime forest trails and campground shade trees.
- Mainland Ocean City neighborhoods with mature willows and elms.
- Sunny forest edges along bay-side roads west of the barrier island.
When to look
- March–April and October–November most visible; occasional warm-day flights in winter.
Viewing tips & etiquette
- Scan tree trunks at eye level—hibernating adults blend in until they sun themselves.
