Mourning Cloak, Larva and Pupa - Nymphalidae Nymphalinae Nymphalis antiopa (Linnaeus, 1758)
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Fifth Instar



Fifth Instar


Fifth Instar


Fifth Instar


Fifth Instar



Pupa Photos
#4 Pupa formed 31 July 2009

#4 Pupa formed 31 July 2009


#4 Pupa  -  9:08 A.M.  9 August 2009
12 minutes before butterfly emerged


#4 Pupa -  9:08 A.M.  9 August 2009
12 minutes before butterfly emerged



Photo Details - ©Nicky Davis
On 26 July 2009 I located some 5th instar antiopa on willows up Butterfield Canyon, Salt Lake County, Utah
GPS 40°29' 73" N 111°57'26" W.
Elevation 4470 feet


Nymphalis antiopa larvae are gregarious in that they like to stay near each other to feed and rest. They were in a sort of loose ball on the willow when they were located.   These larvae  used  a defensive "head-bobbing" movement when they were disturbed, presumably to keep flies and other insects from parasitizing them.  It seemed as if they were at a concert just nodding their heads  to the music.

#1 pupa formed 31 July 2009.

Pupa emerged after 9 days

Host Plant:
Narrowleaf Willow  Salix exigua

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