Arrowhead Blue
Common NameArrowhead Blue
Scientific NameGlaucopsyche piasus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblue, grey, white, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, chaparral, sagebrush flats, mountain meadows
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsLupinus spp. (lupines)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves or flower buds. Larvae feed on flowers and seeds, often attended by ants. Pupae overwinter, sometimes for multiple years.
Identification TipsLook for the pale greyish-white underside with prominent black spots, particularly the 'arrowhead' or chevron-like markings on the hindwing. Males have a bright blue upperside, while females are duller blue or brownish.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale greyish-white underside, featuring a distinctive pattern of black spots, some ringed with white, and often arrowhead-shaped markings near the wing margins. Males typically have iridescent blue uppersides.
