Eastern Tailed-Blue
Cupido comyntas
Summary
This pretty blue butterfly is commonly seen in sunny, open areas, flying very close to the ground. When its caterpillars hatch, they burrow into the seedpods of their host plants (clover, vetch, and other members of the pea/bean family) and overwinter there, pupating in the spring. Because they can’t fly too high, adults nectar on a variety of low-growing flowers.
More Details
FAMILY
Lycaenidae (Gossamer-Winged)
IDENTIFICATION
Average Wingspan: 0.83-1.14 inches. Small tail on hindwing. Adult eastern tailed-blues exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism: males typically boast an iridescent blue upper side, while females range from lighter blue to brown or charcoal. Ventral side light gray with small dots and bars.
HABITAT
Common in dry open areas, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas, and lawns.
LIFE CYCLE
Eggs are strategically laid on flower buds. Overwinters as fully grown larva, reemerging to feed on buds, flowers, and seeds of their host plants. In spring, the caterpillar transitions to the pupa stage. Multiple broods from spring to fall.
HOST PLANTS
Pea family (legumes)
Ecosystem Connections
The caterpillars are herbivores that graze on vegetation, and adults serve a role in pollination. All life stages provide food for predators. Because butterflies are so sensitive to toxins and disturbances in the environment, they are good indicators of the overall health of ecosystems.