Short-tailed Blue
Common NameShort-tailed Blue
Scientific NameCupido argiades
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale blue, grey, black, orange
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open woodland, clearings, often near water
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, parts of North Africa
Host PlantsTrifolium, Lotus corniculatus, Vicia, Medicago sativa
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae feed on flowers and seeds, often attended by ants. Pupation occurs near the ground, and it overwinters as a pupa or larva.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, pale blue-grey underside with black spots, the distinct orange patch on the hindwing, and the very short, fine tail on the hindwing.
Description
A small butterfly with pale blue-grey undersides marked with black spots, a prominent orange lunule, and a short tail on the hindwing.
