Escher's blue
Common NameEscher's blue
Scientific NamePolyommatus escheri
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale grey, black, orange
HabitatDry, rocky slopes, subalpine meadows, mountainous regions
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe (Pyrenees, Alps, Apennines, Balkan Peninsula)
Host PlantsAstragalus monspessulanus, Astragalus glycyphyllos
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants, and the larvae, which are often myrmecophilous, feed on the leaves. Pupation typically occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the pale greyish-blue underside with black spots ringed in white, and the distinctive row of orange lunules on the hindwing. Males have a brilliant blue upperside, while females are typically brown with blue basal scaling.
Description
This butterfly displays a pale greyish-blue underside with distinct black spots ringed in white across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwings also feature a prominent submarginal row of bright orange crescent-shaped markings.
