Common Blue - Polyommatus icarus. This widespread and common butterfly is found from North Africa to the Arctic . In the British Isles it occurs almost everywhere, specimens from Ireland being regarded as a distinct race (ssp. mariscolore). Habitats for this species include lowland meadows and hillsides up to an altitude of about 2000 meters. The caterpillar has a black head and the bode is bright green with a darker line down the back and a whiteish stripe along each side. It feeds on the flowers and foliage of birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus), rest harrow (Ononis spinosa), clover (Trifolium) and related plants. Caterpillars of the autumn brood hibernate through the winter. Pupation takes place at the base of the foodplant under a few strands of silk. Butterflies may be found from April to September. In the north only one brood but further south up to three broods a year.
Text: Butterflies and Moths in Britain and Europe
(1982) David Carter. Pan Books
