Emperor or Emperess ??

[Paul]

This PE is the first I have ever seen.. but it didn't have a hint of purple sheen from any angle.... so.... is it a) female, b) male but worn, or c) male without purple sheen... I would be very interested to know what more experienced PE fans think.

[Pete Eeles]

The wing shape is shouting "female" to me! Males have a more-pointed forewing.

Cheers,

- Pete

[Inachisio]

It's a female. Apart from the lack of violet shin, the wings are more broad in the female.

The only Apatura iris that I saw in my life, was also a female... How I wish go back in my life for find it, but with camera this time!

[Padfield]

Agreed - definitely a female. I think this is by far the harder sex to get a picture of and I envy you, Paul!

First purple emperors seen in Huémoz just the day before yesterday - unsexed because flying high among trees and only seen briefly. Now I know I have a local colony I shall try very hard to get a good female picture like yours!

Guy

[Paul]

That's wonderful, and appreciated, but a little ironic!! I'm not so sure she was in the best of health 'cos she shouldn't have really been sitting where she was... Maybe have a chance tomorrow or Thursday to go back to Bentley Wood, weather permitting. Would love to see a male on the ground!
Found a female PH at Lydlinch Common this aft...