Species profile
About this species
The Common Blue is the most widespread blue butterfly in Britain & Ireland, with males displaying striking violet-blue wings edged with a white fringe. Females are predominantly brown with orange spots near the wing margins & a dusting of blue towards the body. The undersides of both sexes are grey-brown with distinctive black & orange spots arranged in a characteristic pattern.
Found on chalk & limestone grassland, coastal dunes, woodland rides, & roadside verges where its larval foodplant bird's-foot trefoil grows in abundance.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Common Blue with us in Bulgaria.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late morning on warm sunny days between May & September, with peak activity in June & August when two broods are on the wing. Overcast but bright conditions can slow butterflies down, making them easier to photograph.
Photograph on warm, sunny mornings when butterflies are less active & easier to approach whilst they bask with wings open. Use a macro lens at f/8 to f/11 to achieve sharp focus on the wings whilst retaining a pleasingly blurred background. Get down to the butterfly's level by lying on the ground, shooting from a low angle to capture a more intimate & compelling perspective.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Common Blue
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.