Field guide · Denmark
Blues, coppers and hairstreaks · Denmark

Cranberry blue

Agriades optilete

Cranberry blue is relatively rare in Denmark. Wingspan: 25-30 mm. Flight time is from the first days of June (although only on relatively dry locations) to mid-July. Cranberry blue is found in Denmark in poor wetlands such as raised bogs, quaking bogs, and heathland bogs, where host plants are present in numbers.

Status in this countryRelatively rare in DenmarkEN (Endangered)
Cranberry blue

Flight period

The flight period ranges from the first days of June (though only in relatively dry locations) to mid-July. The best time is usually between June 15th and 25th.

Habitat

Cranberry blue is found in Denmark in areas such as raised bogs, quaking bogs, and heathland bogs, where host plants are present in numbers.

Identifying features

Wingspan: 25-30 mm. The male is deep blue-violet on the upperside, and white-grey-powder blue on the underside.

Similar species

Cranberry blue can be confused with both Idas blue and Silver-studded blue, but upon closer inspection, the male's violaceous blue colour and the large eyespot on the back are clearly visible.

Distribution

Cranberry blue is found scattered in Jutland in suitable locations. It is most common in Central Jutland, in the areas surrounding Mossø.

Biology

The flight in males is rapid and erratic. Females are somewhat more calm.