Reiman Gardens - Nathan's Notes

June 15, 2010

 Keep an eye out this month in the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing for a native species called the Morning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa). Since it overwinters as an adult, the Morning Cloak is typically one of the first species observed in spring. Unlike a lot of the nectar feeding butterflies, the Morning Cloak avoids flowers; instead it prefers feeding on rotting fruit and tree sap. Morning Cloaks are strong, deliberate fliers which often sit with their wings closed while at rest. If you are fortunate enough to observe an individual with its wings open during your visit to the Butterfly Wing, take a moment to observe the subtle beauty inside.