Subject: What are these
Location: Burkburnett, TX
April 28, 2014 9:43 pm
I have 5 of these hanging in my back patio. Can you tell me what they are?
Signature: Curious in Texas
Dear Curious in Texas,
Do you have an elm or willow tree nearby? These are the Pupae or Chrysalides of Mourning Cloak Butterflies. The spiny caterpillars feed on the leaves of elm and willow as well as a few other tree species. They often migrate away from the food source to begin the metamorphosis process. Adult Mourning Cloak butterflies are quite pretty with velvety dark wings, cream wing edges and bright blue spots.