Observation date: June 19, 2011
Submitted by: spydust2
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: These caterpillars have appeared for the first time on a Chinese elm tree I have. I live in Los Angeles and the weather lately has been cool overcast mornings (60's) and days warm up to the 75-80. I want to know if this is a caterpillar of a butterfly or moth.
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: December 05, 2019
Coordinator notes: Based on hostplant and general appearance of the caterpillar, I suspect this is a Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) in which a normal black caterpillar looks purple instead. A problem of accurate lighting and color in the picture? Based on my knowledge of what is in that county, I'll accept it-Ken Davenport
