It was only recently that this butterfly was considered a separate species from the Common Blue, due to recent studies into its DNA. It is practically identical, but some males possess small spots on the edge of the hindwing on the upperside. It replaces the Common Blue in southern Spain and Portugal, although the precise distributions of both species here is unknown. It is sometimes known as the Austaut’s Blue.
Distribution: Southern Spain, Portugal and some Mediterranean islands, such as the Balearics, Sicily and Sardinia.
Flight Period: March to July in 3 broods.
Habitat: Woodland rides, maquis, scrub, brownfield land, field margins, frequent at lower altitudes.
Foodplants: A wide range of legumes (Fabaceae).
Nectar Sources: Brambles (Rubus), thistles (Cirsium), Carline Thistle (Carlina corymbosa), mints (Mentha) etc.
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- Southern Blue, Querenca, Portugal, April 2022
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- Southern Blue, Querenca, Portugal, July 2016
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- Southern Blue, Nerja, Spain, July 2020
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- Southern Blue, Tavira, Portugal, July 2016
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- Southern Blue, Tavira, Portugal, July 2016
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- Southern Blue, Nerja, Spain, July 2020
