Holly Blue

Today after heavy rain the whole morning (only 5mm though) the warmth of the sun brought out the butterflies

This is the first Holly Blue - Celestrina argiolus to be seen here this spring

warming up in the sun. It's a male - females have a wider dark border on upperwings,

especially the second brood later in the summer. See blog 24th July 2011 to compare.

The first brood will have hibernated overwinter in chrysalis form, hidden in the earth. 

 View showing the distinctive underwing pattern and silvery sheen. It was perched on very rough ground - had to almost stand on my head to take this without falling into the mud.

Holly Blue seen from above next to a seedling, almost invisible,

in line with the midday sun.