Dotted Blue
Common NameDotted Blue
Scientific NamePlebejus argus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, black, orange
HabitatHeathlands, grasslands, dunes, woodland clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsLotus corniculatus, Calluna vulgaris, Genista, Cytisus
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves and are often tended by ants (myrmecophilous). Pupation occurs near the ground, leading to adult emergence.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of black spots on the light grey underside of both forewings and hindwings, combined with a prominent orange band along the margin of the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with a fuzzy blue-grey body and light grey undersides featuring prominent black spots and a distinct orange submarginal band on the hindwings.
