Observation date: April 22, 2021
Submitted by: AK40Sowka
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Our dog and cat both spotted a mourning Cloak Caterpillar wandering along on our window screen; upon trying to take a photo for identification 6 more were observed along our window, roofline and our neighbor's housing exterior. All caterpillars observed were found on housing exterior (brick, wood, screen, glass), though there are 5 pine trees surrounding the house (approx. 15 ft away) though none were observed in the trees.
Status: Resident
Verified by: stevecary
Verified date: April 28, 2021
Coordinator notes: yes, it's a mourning cloak, and what a cool observation. this is clearly a caterpillar looking for a place to make its chrysalis. eaves and overhangs are often used in human habitats. they must have been feeding on some kind of deciduous tree or shrub such as willow, hackberry, or some such. pine trees would be of no interest (I think). thanks for submitting!
