Species profile
About this species
The Short-tailed Blue is the smallest butterfly found in Europe, with a wingspan of just 16-27mm. The upper wings of the male are a delicate violet-blue, while the female is largely brown with a subtle blue suffusion near the body. The underside of both sexes is a pale greyish-white with small dark spots.
Found in chalk & limestone grasslands, hillsides, & downland where its larval foodplant kidney vetch grows in abundance. It favours sheltered, south-facing slopes with short turf & areas of bare ground.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Short-tailed 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 May to August, with a peak in June & July. Early morning on warm sunny days is best, when butterflies are warming themselves & less likely to fly.
Use a macro lens of 90-105mm to capture the intricate wing detail & tiny scale of this species. Approach slowly & from a low angle to photograph the butterfly at eye level, which produces a more engaging & natural composition. Early morning is ideal as the butterfly will be less active & more likely to remain settled on vegetation.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Short-tailed 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.