www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

I know where Purple Emperors roost at night because I have observed them settle down and stay put until dark. Well at least seen the males do that several times in the past.

In a favourite Sussex Wood, in the late evening before the low sun disappears, I've occasionally seen the odd male Purple Emperor actively seeking the ideal perch high in the Beech Trees to settle down for the night. Using my Zeiss West 10 x 50 Binoculars, I watch them settle down. Invariably high up on the highest younger upright shoots above the main body of the crown. Always head down on the east side of the tree. Presumably to benefit from the first warmth of the sun as it rises in the mornings and less chance of being disturbed by the strong late evening sun or potential predators.

Conversely, despite many hours in many woods, I have never seen a White Admiral settle down for the night even in woods where there are strong populations. I often wait until late into dusk as it is then that the Woodcocks become active. Always a joy to see those birds.

Never have a chance observation disturbing a White Admiral at rest in the evening either. Something which occasionally happens with other species of butterflies.

So, has any other observer had experience of seeing where White Admirals settle down for the night? Until then, it will be a mystery for me. I suspect high and deep in the leafy crowns of forest trees but, never actually seen one settle there. Thus I suspect their settling down must be very low profile, covert and less showy than that of the larger butterfly.

Hi,
apologies for the late reply (I think we are getting there).
From my observations:
As you might well know, when White Admirals first emerge a dominant male will establish a territory in a sunny spot on the woodland edge at aprox. 1-6 meters above ground level (this is also about honeysuckle height). Rival males will be chased off and females "courted" often away from their territory a bit like Purple Emperors. The butterfly will descend occasionally to feed on bramble blossom etc. When the sun "goes in" or on cloudy days, the White Admiral loses at least some interest in it's territory and wonders further away, often ascending.
Unlike a Meadow Brown or a Ringlet which become quite lethargic, on cloudy days in the height of summer, the White Admiral may maintain it's swift flight and may be quite hard to follow but they do seem to ascend rather than descend. I don't have any sightings or photos (yet) of White Admirals roosting so I cannot prove "beyond a shadow of doubt", but I would look for them roosting in the mid-canopy between approx. 6 meters to 15 meters above ground level. I don't think they go as high as the Purple Emperors.
I hope this (at least) reduces some of the mystery involved I am sure there are others who can add to this (or correct me if I am wrong).
It doesn't really help not being allowed in the common car park after sunset !
Best Wishes