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Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wales
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 10:49 pm
by philus
I am unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wales this weekend. I am not a butterfly expert, I just know ive never seen this one before. I almost trod on it, the butterfly is settled on a rock on the ground. The striking thing is the blue across the wing. I wouldnt say this is a big butterfly - its on the small side. Can anyone help?
Re: Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wal
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 10:54 pm
by Gibster
Hiya Philus,
certainly looks good for a Purple Hairstreak. There's a dead oak leaf beside it, oak woods are the preferred habitat. I suspect the apparent blue sheen is a trick of the light or camera settings?
Hope that helps, stunning little things when seen nicely
Gibster.
Re: Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wal
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 11:10 pm
by philus
Hi Gibster,
I think youve made a positive id. And can confirm locality as an oak wood. Many thanks for your advice. Never seen one of these before. A striking butterfly
Re: Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wal
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 11:19 pm
by Butterfly Gardener
I'm very jealous.
Re: Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wal
Posted: Mon Jul 25, 2011 11:21 pm
by Gibster
Just sorry it took so long for anybody to get back to you
Re: Unable to identify this butterfly seen in north east Wal
Posted: Tue Jul 26, 2011 8:39 am
by David M
A lovely female Purple Hairstreak. It's unusual for them to settle on the ground. Normally, they're high up in the Oak/Ash canopies.