Dark blue butterfly?

[The Mummy]

Yesterday I was in the New Forest sat in woodland by Beaulieu River. Across the river I saw what looked like a large butterfly - its wings dark metallic blue and iridescent, the underside seemed black. I thought there is no butterfly in this country that colour, and maybe it was a dragonfly. But it was clearly butterfly shape in wings and flight. I appreciate my eyesight is not brilliant, and dappled shade can be deceptive, but what on earth could I have seen?

[Anders152]

Have a look at purple emperors...would fit with the location. If it is, count yourself very lucky! Still not seen one myself

[The Mummy]

Thank you - you may be right. I didn't notice any white spots on the wings, but have found a few images where these are minimal or missing. I often walk the dog in this area so will keep my eyes peeled!

[Naturenutz]

Beautiful demoiselle can look butterfly like in dappled shade where i often see them , but i agree it may well have been a purple emperor.Another possibility could be purple hairstreak. None of these however have a particularly dark underside although the dappled light can confuse the eye .

[Susie]

Any more idea about size other than large? Can you compare it to something else to give us an idea of scale please.

[Jim Ford]

BTW 'Susie', did the 'Purple Emperor Trip' you mentioned earlier in the season come off? If so, did you have any success?

Jim

[The Mummy]

Thanks for the responses - purple emperor seems most likely in view of the damp (and muddy) woodland setting. The size would be right too. I will keep a sharp look out when I am next down there (it's a favourite spot - good for nightjars too!).

[Susie]

There's a whole thread about it, Jim. We saw a few Purple Emperors but only from a distance.