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High fliers

The Purple Emperor Butterfly is one of Britain's most unusual butterfly in that they never visit flowers. Instead they spend their life high up in the canopy of the trees where they are difficult for us to see. They feed on sap, honeydew from aphids, and even urine, but to breed they need tall trees. The oak is perfect and a number of male butterflies may take up residence amongst its loftiest branches. From this vantage point it can look out for passing females and chase away other males. After seeing off its rivals, each male returns to his favourite perch, ready to continue his vigil of the sky.

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Duration:

2 minutes