ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Eastern Tailed Blue

 Eastern Tailed Blue


The Eastern tailed blue is our most common blue butterfly. It can be found almost anywhere during the growing season.


Eastern Tailed Blue
Everes comyntas

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: April to October (continuous broods)

• Wings: .79 - 1.14 inches 

Description
While it has a "tail-like" projection from its hindwing, the Eastern tailed blue is not a "hairstreak." Males have light blue dorsal wing surfaces, and females have deep rich "charcoal" colored dorsal wing surfaces.

Habitat and Habits
The Eastern tailed blue can be found in all habitats except the deep woods. It is found in all 88 Ohio counties.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of the Eastern tailed blue feed on legumes like bush clover, where the eggs are laid on the flower buds and stems.