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Silver-studded Blue butterfly

©Guy Edwardes/2020VISION

Silver-studded Blue butterfly

©Chris Gomersall/2020VISION

Silver-studded Blue butterfly

©Chris Gomersall/2020VISION

Silver-studded blue

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Scientific name: Plebejus argus
The dazzling silver-studded blue is a rare butterfly of heathland habitats, mainly in southern England. It has undergone severe population declines in recent years.

Top facts

Category

Stats

Wingspan: 2.6-3.2cm

Conservation status

Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.

When to see

June to August

About

The silver-studded blue emerges in June and is usually on the wing until late August. It is a rare butterfly, generally found in heathland habitats that have shorter, sparsely vegetated areas. It is restricted to close-knit colonies in southern England and Wales. Two subspecies can be found in its range, while two others are now extinct in the UK. The larvae feed on a wide variety of plants, such as Bell Heather, Cross-leaved Heath and gorses.

What to look for

The silver-studded blue is a small butterfly which gets its name from the light blue reflective 'studs' (scales) found on the underside of the wings. The upper wings are blue with a dark outer rim. Males are bluer than females, which are more of a dull brown.

Where to find

Restricted to specific sites in southern England, Wales and Shropshire.

Habitats

Did you know?

The caterpillars of the silver-studded blue are always found with ants! The ants protect the caterpillars in return for a sugary substance that they produce.