An expedition just north of Das Capital, in pursuit of the Holy Grail of leps. To Broxbourne Woods reserve in Hertfordshire, with Paul C, in the chariot of fire (a.k.a his whale-like Volvo which runs on chip oil after a deft DIY conversion). Conditions looked good, but we spoke to local enthusiasts who've been trying within the brief flight period for years, with no luck.....
Lots of common spp. on the wing, and crippling views of eye-level Purple Hairstreaks; and then, word came through of our quarry, seen a few minutes earlier on a favoured food source.... a short speed walk later and there it was - a stunning Purple Emperor, at point blank range, feasting alluringly on a dog turd. Check your shoes, its not always bad news.
(Mark)
