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Some Blues (1 Viewer)

SDV

Well-known member
Hi

I have terrible trouble with ID'ing butterflies despite browsing numerous guides, especially blues and browns.

These blues were all taken at Martin Down in Hampshire, UK in late August.

Some positive Ids would be very welcome.
 

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First two are Chalkhill Blue, final ones are Brown Argus - note the orange spots on the forewings which would be largely absent in the similar Common Blue. And I'll be helpful by stating that as a fact rather than being unhelpful by adding a ? which helps no-one.
 
First two are Chalkhill Blue, final ones are Brown Argus - note the orange spots on the forewings which would be largely absent in the similar Common Blue. And I'll be helpful by stating that as a fact rather than being unhelpful by adding a ? which helps no-one.

I don't like to be so arrogant as some clearly do, in assuming that I'm always correct, I'll take that '?' away for you then. You don't even need to look at the 'largely absent' orange spots either, the absence of a cell spot in the basal half of the forewing is enough.

Maybe change that name to 'off the Rayles' ..............
 
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Sorry to have provoked such discourse. I was simply wanting some help with IDs. I would still appreciate some help or even suggestions as to IDs on my other posts with regard to Blues photographed on Martin Down.
 
Many thanks Dave. I know that the undersides of the Blues are difficult, about the only one I can do with confidence is the Holly Blue!

As for whether it is Adonis or Chalkhill, hopefully some others will wade in to show their expertise.
 
Well, I would be more inclined to Adonis Blue for the first two but ready to be shot down by those more knowledgeable than me.

The reason I leaned Chalkhill was the binary spots which are just visible in the forewing, shown as a characteristic of Chalkhill but not Adonis.

On closer inspection, the deep blue of the upperwing is just visible and is better match for Adonis.
 
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