Damon Blue
Common NameDamon Blue
Scientific NamePolyommatus damon
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorstan, white, black
HabitatDry grasslands, steppe habitats, flowery meadows, rocky slopes
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host PlantsOnobrychis viciifolia, Onobrychis arenaria
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on sainfoin and are often myrmecophilous (associated with ants). They pupate near the ground, and adults emerge in mid-summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white streak on the underside of both forewings and hindwings, combined with the pattern of black spots. Males have a bright blue upperside, while females are brown.
Description
A small butterfly with a light tan underside, characterized by a prominent white streak across the hindwing and forewing, accompanied by a series of small black spots ringed with white. The body is hairy and light blue-grey.
