Scientific Name: Polyommatus Icarus Common Name: The Common Blue
About:
This butterfly is found widespread across Britain, Ireland, mainland Europe, Canada and parts of Asia in a variety of different habitats and this has lead to slight behavioural changes. For example in southern England this species will produce 2 broods a year (May and August) whilst in the northern parts of the UK they will only produce 1 (July). Although still numerous this species is predicted to have had a 74% population decrease since 1901 within the UK.
Key Information:
Wing Span: 30-40mm
Habitat: Warm, grassy areas with shade
When to see : You can find this butterfly flying anytime between May to October (depending on location)
Family: Lycaenidae
Order: Lepidoptera
Biological Rank: Genus
Fun Fact: This is species of butterfly is considered invasive and destructive in North America after it was accidentally introduced at an air strip near Montreal, Quebec.
How To Identify:
The male common blue has very vivid and bright blue upper side wings with a white fringe along the edge of the wing whilst the female has a brown and or blue coloured upper wings. The under wings are both brown with white along the edges and a mix of orange and black spots.