Eastern Tailed-Blue
Common NameEastern Tailed-Blue
Scientific NameCupido comyntas
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorspale blue, white, grey, black, orange
HabitatMeadows, fields, open woodlands, gardens, roadsides
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada, eastern and central United States, Mexico)
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, vetch, tick-trefoil, various peas
Flight PeriodApril to November (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant flowers or buds. Larvae feed on flowers, buds, and young leaves, often tended by ants. Pupae are typically green or brown, found near the base of host plants. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the pale blue-white underside with subtle grey markings, and the two distinct small tails on each hindwing, usually accompanied by small black and orange spots near the tails.
Description
A small butterfly with pale blue-white undersides marked with faint grey bands and spots, featuring two small tails on each hindwing with associated black and orange spots.
