This butterfly gets its name from its preference for Holly as its larval hostplant and individuals can be seen flying around the tops of mature plants on sunny days. It is a handsome insect, with electric blue upperwings and a silvery-grey underside. It can be abundant in Europe and is becoming more frequent in Ireland, particularly in the north and west. Unlike most blues which can be seen in various open flowery habitats, this species prefers wooded or shrubby areas and often flies and basks above eye level.

Distribution: Throughout Europe but absent from Scotland

Flight Period: April-August, in two broods

Habitat: Woodland margins and clearing, parks, gardens and mature scrub up to 1900m.

Foodplants: Primarily Holly (Ilex aquifolium), but also Ivy (Hedera) in the later generation as well as a wide range of other shrubs, such as brambles (Rubus).

Nectar Sources: Brambles (Rubus), Ragwort (Jacobea vulgaris) forget-me-nots (Myosotis), Elder (Sambucus nigra) and bugles (Ajuga). I have also seen them visit Willow catkins (Salix) and dandelions (Taraxacum officinale). Will also feed on honeydew and take mineral salts from damp ground.

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