The Common Blue is the most widespread blue butterfly in Britain and Ireland.
   They are quite common and found in a variety of habitats, especially sunny sheltered areas. They seem to prefer downlands, coastal dunes, undercliffs, road verges, acid grass and woodland clearings.
     You may find these butterflies individually, but are far more likely to see them in small groups feeding together on patches of bluebells or plant nectar-rich borders.
   The males patrol areas of high activity, looking for receptive females.
    Male Common Blues have violet blue dorsal wings with greyish beige ventral sides.
     Females in the south have predominantly brown dorsal wings and orange crescents, where those found farther north and west have much more blue.
      The brightly colored males are much more noticeable, while the females are far more difficult to spot.
   Common Blue flight, in general, is fast and haphazard.
   There are typically two generations of Common Blues per year, but if the weather is warm, there can be up to three broods over the spring and summer.
   Common Blues have an adult lifespan of approximately 3 wks.