The Blues

[Paul Wetton]

The following video shows a Blue filmed in a very hot place close to the Greek border in South West Bulgaria at Chuchuligovo.

It has a basal cell spot and is very pale, indicating Common Blue or possibly False Eros Blue. It has no marginal chequering, discounting Adonis or Chalkhill Blues.

However, there are dark submarginal spots on the hindwing upperside and the butterfly appears to be a male. The spotting is very similar to that found on Zephyr Blues.

I would plump for False Eros Blue if it had a wider dark margin on the upperwings. Maybe it is just a Common Blue with spotting. I would appreciate any help with this one as I'm completely stuck.

Thanks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceAnhrcHZfg[/video]

[Mikhail]

I can't really think of any plausible alternative to the Common Blue. The False Eros Blue is more of an upland species, and certainly not to be expected in the Chuchuligovo area, which I have visited on a number of occasions.

M.

[Paul Wetton]

Hi Mikhail
I'm inclined to agree with you although it looks odd for a Common Blue.