Sky Dancers The Common Blue Butterfly in Pegwell Bay



Nestled within the serene landscapes of Pegwell Bay and its surrounding areas, the Common Blue Butterfly emerges as a quintessential symbol of Britain and Ireland's grassy habitats.

As the most widespread blue butterfly in the region, its presence graces a myriad of grassy landscapes, offering a vibrant spectacle to behold. While the brightly coloured males proudly flaunt their hues, the females, in contrast, maintain a more secretive demeanour. Their upper wing colours range from a near-complete brown in southern England to predominantly blue in the western reaches of Ireland and Scotland, with striking variations even within local populations. Notably, unlike their counterparts, the Adonis and Chalk Hill Blues, the Common Blue's dark veins do not extend into white fringes along the wing margins.

Despite its widespread distribution, localised declines within its range have been observed, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts.

Belonging to the Blues family, this species adorns a diminutive size, with a wingspan ranging from 35mm in males to females. Classified as a low priority by Butterfly Conservation, the Common Blue holds a stable European status, currently not threatened.

The journey of the Common Blue unfolds amidst a diverse array of habitats, from the sun-kissed sheltered spots of downlands and coastal dunes to the verdant undercliffs and acidic grasslands. Its adaptability extends to urban landscapes, where it finds refuge in disused pits, quarries, and even cemeteries, offering a glimpse of nature's resilience amidst human development.

Fuelling the lifecycle of this enchanting species are various foodplants, with the Common Bird's-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) taking centre stage. Additional plants such as Greater Bird's-foot-trefoil, Black Medick, Common Restharrow, White Clover, and Lesser Trefoil also play vital roles in sustaining its population.

Within the intricate tapestry of Pegwell Bay's biodiversity, the Common Blue Butterfly serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate dance between nature and its habitats. Its presence urges us to treasure and safeguard these precious ecosystems for the benefit of future generations.

 

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