Samos, Greece, June 2018

S Greece, July 2018

Field notes and information

A very distinctive butterfly with uniquely scalloped hindwings.

Identification & Similar species: Resembles no other species.

Distribution & Flight: Sporadic in northern Spain, across south France, Italy, south Switzerland and more widespread in central eastern Europe and the Balkans. Often common where it is found. Flies from mid June to August.

Habitat & Behaviour: Open flowery meadows in hills and clearings in scrubland. The bright blue males are frequently found nectaring.

Variation: Females vary greatly in the extent of blue. The form steeveni entirely lacks blue on the upperside. In some populations this female form is dominant.

Valais, Switzerland, July 2007

Valais, Switzerland, July 2021

Valais, Switzerland July 2014

Samos, Greece, June 2018

Montes Universales, Spain, July 2011

Samos, Greece, June 2018

Samos, Greece, June 2018

Burgos, Spain, July 2011

Samos, Greece, June 2018

Macedonia, Greece, July 2004

Female.

S Greece, July 2018