Purple Emperor macro 2
... more detail on markings ...
I noticed how my find this year had additional markings to previous years' Purple Emperors at Knepp Rewilding
Let me explain about the fascination of the stunning Purple Emperor butterfly ...
An elusive prize for butterfly enthusiasts, the male Purple Emperor spends most of the day perching in the canopy of a particular favourite oak, or other 'master tree', rising occasionally to battle other males, glinting high above the treetops. Sometimes, usually mid-morning, or indeed late afternoon, the male descends to feed from damp puddles, animal droppings or even decaying carcasses, providing photographers with their best opportunities.
The cows were driven through and a male just couldn't resist the fresh salts! Yes I know but his tastes are variable from honey dew and sap run on the trees to the less favourable delectation.
Rarer opportunities have them salt searching on the passerby!
The female is rarely seen. The female (larger than the male) lacks the rich, iridescent purple sheen of the male
Purple Emperor macro 2
... more detail on markings ...
I noticed how my find this year had additional markings to previous years' Purple Emperors at Knepp Rewilding
Let me explain about the fascination of the stunning Purple Emperor butterfly ...
An elusive prize for butterfly enthusiasts, the male Purple Emperor spends most of the day perching in the canopy of a particular favourite oak, or other 'master tree', rising occasionally to battle other males, glinting high above the treetops. Sometimes, usually mid-morning, or indeed late afternoon, the male descends to feed from damp puddles, animal droppings or even decaying carcasses, providing photographers with their best opportunities.
The cows were driven through and a male just couldn't resist the fresh salts! Yes I know but his tastes are variable from honey dew and sap run on the trees to the less favourable delectation.
Rarer opportunities have them salt searching on the passerby!
The female is rarely seen. The female (larger than the male) lacks the rich, iridescent purple sheen of the male