In a world dominated by greens and browns, the colour purple stands out as a rare and regal marvel. It's a hue that signifies rarity, beauty, and a touch of the dramatic, making any creature that wears it seem like a living work of art. While not commonly seen in the animal kingdom, nature has, in fact, painted a select few species in stunning shades of violet and purple, creating breathtaking spectacles on land, in the air, and beneath the sea.
Marine Royalty: The Purple Sea Star
Patrolling the rocky coastlines of the Pacific Ocean, the purple sea star is a familiar yet extraordinary sight. These marine invertebrates typically span 10 to 25 centimeters and are known for their five thick arms. While they are famous for their deep purple colour, they can also appear in shades of orange, yellow, or brown, with their diet and habitat influencing their final appearance. More than just a pretty face, the purple sea star is a crucial predator, playing a critical role in maintaining the health of tidepool ecosystems by feeding on mussels and other invertebrates.
Avian Gems: The Purple Honeycreeper and Violet-Backed Starling
High in the rainforests of South America, the purple honeycreeper adds a splash of brilliant colour. The male sports a unique violet-blue plumage that helps him attract mates, while the female remains a camouflaged green amidst the foliage. These active little birds, part of the tanager family, use their fine, curved bills to expertly sip nectar from flowers.
Across the Atlantic, in the woodlands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, the violet-backed starling performs a similar dazzling display. The male is adorned with vibrant, iridescent purple feathers that shimmer in the light, a stark contrast to the brown and white camouflage of the female. When these birds gather, they truly light up the African landscape with their spectacular colour.
Iridescent Insects: The Purple Emperor and Violet Ground Beetle
In the woodlands of Europe, the lesser purple emperor butterfly is a master of light and colour. The male is celebrated for its wings' glossy, purple sheen, an iridescence that shines most brilliantly under direct sunlight. Females are larger and wear more subdued brown hues. These elusive butterflies spend most of their lives high in the treetops, only descending occasionally to feed.
Closer to the ground, the violet ground beetle is a nocturnal hunter with a metallic allure. Its black body is edged with a beautiful metallic purple sheen, helping it blend into the dark, damp forest floors and gardens it calls home. Two nearly identical species, Carabus violaceus and Carabus problematicus, are strong predators that help control populations of smaller insects.
These five stunning creatures prove that nature is the most talented artist of all, using a rare palette to create living masterpieces that continue to captivate and inspire.
