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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2018
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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2015
Field notes and information
The blue spots are distinctive on this large dark butterfly.
Identification & Similar species: Distinctive with large forewing eyespots centred with pale blue, not the more typical white of the Satyridae. Females are usually considerably larger than the males.
Distribution & Flight: Coastal in northwest Spain. Most of France and eastwards including north Italy, south Germany, Slovakia, Balkans and north Greece. July to early September.
Habitat & Behaviour: Hot, grasslands with plenty of flowers, often close to scrub or woodland. Flies just above the long grasses of high summer where its large dark form is visible from a distance. Frequently feeds on taller flowers such as Scabious and Hemp Agrimony.
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Vaud, Switzerland, July 2021
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Valais, Switzerland, July 2022
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Vaud, Switzerland, July 2021
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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2010
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Vaud, Switzerland, July 2021
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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2010
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Valais, Switzerland, July 2022
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Valais, Switzerland, July 2022
A massive wasp spider made short work of this large butterfly. No chance.
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Valais, Switzerland, July 2022
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Vaud, Switzerland, July 2021
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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2018
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Vaud, Switzerland, August 2018