While strolling near your trees, you may have noticed strange little black and prickly caterpillars, perched in colonies on the branches. At first glance, they may surprise, even worry. What if it was an invasion? However, what you are observing here is the very beginning of a small miracle of nature: the arrival of the Morio butterfly, also nicknamed “mourning butterfly”, one of the first messengers of spring… and a discreet ally for the balance of your garden.
Eggs in clusters… and a well-organized colony
It all starts at the end of summer or at the very beginning of spring. Female butterflies choose specific trees – often willows, poplars or elms – to lay tiny eggs, lined up like pearls along the twigs. A few days later, a mini army of black caterpillars with spines, dotted with small white dots, appears.
Contrary to popular belief, they do not attack your vegetables in the vegetable garden or your flowers. Their menu is very selective: only the leaves of the host trees. Result? No threat to your plantations, nor major damage to fear. Their appetite remains moderate, and the trees recover perfectly.
After a few weeks of growth and several moults, the caterpillars take shelter to begin a spectacular metamorphosis. They form inconspicuous chrysalises, suspended under the branches, and slowly transform into butterflies with deep brown wings, pale yellow edges and small blue spots.
Their name – “mourning butterflies” – evokes the colour of their wings, but their presence is anything but sad: it is a discreet symbol of renewal.
Butterflies that defy winter
One of the great originalities of the Morio? He knows how to brave the cold. While most butterflies do not survive the winter, it finds refuge in bark crevices or other natural shelters, in hibernation mode. As soon as the first sunny days appear, long before the first flowers bloom, it takes to the air. Its dark and elegant silhouette then becomes one of the very first signs of spring.
Three good reasons to leave them alone
Rather than trying to get rid of them, here’s why you should welcome these butterflies into your home with open arms:
- An important ecological role: They participate in the pollination of certain wildflowers and feed birds and other insects, thus contributing to the natural balance of your garden.
- An educational activity for young and old: Observing their life cycle, from the small egg to the flight of the butterfly, is a fascinating experience, to be enjoyed with children or among nature enthusiasts.
- No threat to your crops: Unlike other more voracious caterpillars, the Morio caterpillars will not touch your tomatoes or roses. They live discreetly on their favorite trees.
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