The Official Montana State Insect

Nymphalis antiopa

Nymphalis Antiopa, commonly known as the Mourning Cloak butterfly, is a species of nymphalidae butterfly native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It was designated as the official state insect of Montana in 2001. The Mourning Cloak is easily recognizable due to its unique color pattern of dark brown, yellow, and white. The wingspan can reach up to 3.5 inches and the butterfly typically lives up to 11 months in the wild. The Mourning Cloak is a very hardy species, as it can survive cold climates, and is often the first butterfly species to be seen in the spring. It feeds on tree sap, rotting fruit, and bird droppings. Additionally, the Mourning Cloak is one of the few butterfly species that is able to hibernate through the winter. Interestingly, the butterfly prefers to hibernate in tree bark or under the loose bark of logs, and can remain dormant for up to 8 months. The Mourning Cloak was chosen as the Montana state insect in 2001 due to its hardiness and its ability to survive in the cold climate of Montana. It was also seen as a symbol of Montana's natural beauty and resilience.

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