Unknown Butterfly

dmclean2 · #1 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 03:27 PM

Hi Folks,
I have a photo of a butterfly which I'm not sure about, it was taken at Brockhill Park a week ago, the fact that the cell spot is missing from near the base of the underside forewing is what is causing the confusion, can anyone help me out on the ID please.
cheers
Duncan

basquesteve · #2 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 03:38 PM

Its a dead ringer for a Chapman's Blue but your not supposed to find them in the U.K !
interesting

Steve

shenk1 · #3 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 03:44 PM

Nearest in my admittedly rubbish book is an Adonis Blue.

GuyF · #4 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 03:56 PM

Hi Duncan,
It's a male Common Blue, the missing spot is a bit unusual but it does happen from time to time.
Guy

dmclean2 · #5 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 05:24 PM

Thanks for your help folks, I too was thinking about Chapman Blue but I know they are not suposed to be in Britain, thats why I said nothing to influence your thoughts on it, thanks Guy for your help, it makes sense of where it was, ie; on Horseshoe vetch, I didn't know about them missing a spot like that which is surprising to say the least,
Thanks again
Duncan

GuyF · #6 (**permalink**) 21-08-2010, 05:46 PM

Yes, the 'missing spot' could cause problems, especially as it is also often used a feature separating Common Blue and Brown Argus. To be honest I wouldn't know how to reliably separate Chapman's and Common Blue without the spot, but in this case an aberrant Common Blue is the much more likely option.
Guy