Purple Emperor
Common NamePurple Emperor
Scientific NameApatura iris
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyApaturinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsdark brown, purple, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially those with sallow and willow trees
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host Plantssallow, goat willow, grey willow
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylesoaring
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on sallow leaves. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and two horn-like projections on the head, overwintering as small caterpillars. Pupae are green and resemble a leaf.
Identification TipsLook for the large size, dark wings with white bands, and the distinctive iridescent purple sheen on males. They are often found high in tree canopies but will descend to feed on sap, carrion, or dung.
Description
A large, dark brown butterfly. Males exhibit a striking iridescent purple sheen on their upperwings when viewed from certain angles, while females are larger and lack this strong iridescence. Both sexes feature prominent white bands across their wings and a small orange-ringed black eyespot on the hindwing.
