The Common Blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus) is a widespread and familiar species native to the United Kingdom, known for its delicate appearance and vibrant blue wings. This butterfly is one of the most abundant species in the UK, found in a variety of habitats including meadows, grasslands, and coastal dunes.

Common Blue butterflies primarily feed on the nectar of a wide range of flowering plants such as bird’s-foot trefoil, thistles, and clovers. As caterpillars, they feed on legumes like bird’s-foot trefoil and restharrow. Their diverse diet contributes to their adaptability and success in different habitats.

In terms of behaviour, Common Blue butterflies are known for their erratic flight patterns and their tendency to bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. They are also social creatures, often seen gathering in groups, especially during mating season.

The lifespan of a Common Blue butterfly typically ranges from one to two weeks for adults, with multiple generations emerging throughout the year. Their lifecycle is closely tied to the availability of food plants and suitable breeding habitats.

Culturally, the Common Blue butterfly has been celebrated in various forms of art, literature, and folklore. Its graceful beauty and fleeting lifespan have inspired poets and artists, symbolising the ephemeral nature of life and the beauty of the natural world.

An interesting fact about the Common Blue butterfly is its ability to undergo partial migrations, with some populations traveling significant distances in search of suitable breeding and feeding grounds. This behaviour contributes to the species’ genetic diversity and resilience across different regions of the UK.