Rare butterfly mutation discovered in Queen Margrethe’s private garden

A rare genetic mutation of the already uncommon purple emperor butterfly has been found in Queen Margrethe’s kitchen and ornamental garden at Fredensborg Palace, reports Danish broadcaster DR.

A botanical expert visiting the queen’s private garden noticed an unusually large butterfly. Upon closer inspection, it was identified as an extremely rare mutation of the purple emperor (Apatura iris), a species already considered uncommon in Denmark.

The discovery was made during a guided tour of the gardens, which are not typically open to the public.