Interesting Common Blue ab

[IAC]

Hi all,
A friend of mine recently found this on the Berwickshire coast in the Borders. I am pretty sure its a female? I have never seen anything quite like it before. This one is a likely second brooder. I realise abs are common place with this species, all I am asking for is anything more any of you can tell me about from this photo that I dont already know. Thanks.

Iain.

[bugboy]

I was reading what you'd written and was trying to work out why you thought it was an ab, the only picture on my screen being the underwing shot! It wasn't until I scrolled down that my jaw dropped in amazement, if I was a little male Common Blue larvae that picture would be right across my bedroom wall! A really special butterfly! Definately a female with that plump abdomen.

[David M]

Iain, I think you should change the title of this thread to "Amazing Common Blue ab".

I've never seen anything like it.

Even in this apparent 'year' of icarus abs, that one stands out.

Superb find!

[IAC]

Thanks guys,
I am very green that I did not see this myself despite a brief search of the area it was last observed. I have seen some cracking variants of Common Blue females over the years, but this one, as soon as I saw it...well...a once in a blue butterfly moon affair. I might still get lucky and find her again...but...seems unlikely. I will have to be content that my pal had the good fortune to see it and photograph it for posterity, and for us all to enjoy.

Iain.