Boisduval's Blue
Common NameBoisduval's Blue
Scientific NamePlebejus icarioides
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale blue-grey, black, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, grasslands, chaparral, subalpine areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to Baja California, and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsLupinus spp. (Lupines)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on lupines and are often myrmecophilous (associated with ants). Pupation occurs near the ground, and the species overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the pale blue-grey underside with prominent black spots and the distinct orange submarginal band on the hindwing, which differentiates it from other 'blue' butterflies. Males typically have bright blue uppersides, while females are often brown.
Description
A small butterfly with pale blue-grey undersides heavily marked with numerous black spots, and a distinctive orange submarginal band on the hindwing that also contains black spots.
