Identifying features
Wingspan: 64-70 mm. The upperside of the wings is dark, with a pattern of bands in white.
Similar species
Lesser purple emperor can be confused with white admiral, Poplar Admiral, and purple emperor. Their behaviour and appearance resemble Poplar Admiral to the point that the two species cannot be reliably distinguished during flight.
Distribution
The species was first found in Denmark in 2011, when a single specimen was photographed and collected in Pinseskoven on Vestamager. The animal, which was initially identified as purple emperor, was later discovered on a photo website.
Biology
Males often seek out decaying and foul-smelling food sources. Females are rarely seen on the ground, but are found flying or perched in the tree canopy.