I recently learned that the odd, black geometric designs on the leaves of my garden were the eggs of Nymphalis Antiopa butterflies, sometimes referred to as Mourning Cloak butterflies. They were helpful even though at first they appeared to be an alien infestation. These elaborate eggs are arranged in clusters and resemble exquisite black lace scattered on the leaves. Each little egg is perfectly shaped like a geometric design.

The black caterpillars with white markings and spiky bodies emerge when they hatch. Rather than garden flowers and vegetables, their primary food source is trees and shrubs such as poplars, willows, and elms. They pose less of a risk to your garden plants as a result. Before developing into a gorgeous chrysalis and becoming stunning Mourning Cloak butterflies with dark wings dotted with blue and yellow, the caterpillars go through various growth stages.

These butterflies are among the first to emerge in the spring after hibernating through the winter. It is better to leave these eggs or caterpillars alone if you encounter them in your garden. They provide a fascinating look into the lifetime of these unusual butterflies and support a healthier habitat.