A fabulous range of Purple Emperor behaviour was enjoyed on our Knepp safaris yesterday, with a timely message from Matthew Oates allowing everyone spectacular views of mating Purple Emperors, at an unusually low level within an oak tree. While this matrimonial marathon took place (Matthew stayed with the happy couple for the full four hours and two minutes of their union, thereby exceeding the average of three hours and forty-two minutes for this species) other emperor pairs tumbled into the brambles around the base of the tree, as already-mated females rejected the advances of amorous males. Numbers are significantly down on the Purple Emperor annus mirabilis of 2025, but what we're lacking in quantity (although 30+ in a day isn't bad) is more than made up for by quality. The season may burn through quickly in this heat, so get out to your local emperor woods as soon as possible.