Turquoise blue - Plebicula dorylas

Family: Lycaenidae

Flight Time: May-August

Size: 30-34mm

Altitude: 75-2300m

 
There are a number of species of the genus Plebicula found in Europe, they are characterised by the white outer margin of the underside of the forewing. The Turquoise blue is named for the colour of the male upperside. This particular male butterfly (above) was photographed in the Pyrenees in August. The other photos were taken in the Picos de Europa.

 

The Turquoise blue seems very partial to streams. I found them on several occasions in the Picos beside fords, where there were stony crossing places.

Fact File
Similar Species Foodplants Habitat Distribution

 

Leguminosae

Flowery meadows, grassy hollows

Turquoise blue distribution.
 

Early Stages

 

      
 
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