Cranberry Blue
Common NameCranberry Blue
Scientific NameVacciniina optilete
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, black, orange
HabitatBogs, fens, wet heathlands, tundra
Geographic RangeNorthern Eurasia, North America (subarctic regions, high altitudes)
Host PlantsVaccinium oxycoccos, Vaccinium uliginosum, Vaccinium vitis-idaea
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves and flowers of *Vaccinium* species, often overwintering as eggs or young larvae. Pupation occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the light grey underside with prominent black spots and a distinctive row of orange submarginal crescents on the hindwing. The upperside is typically violet-blue in males and brownish-blue in females.
Description
A small butterfly with a light grey to bluish-grey underside, featuring a distinct pattern of black spots and a row of orange crescents on the hindwing margin.
