Western Pygmy Blue
(Brephidium exilis)
Blues
Appearance: Above, both wings copper brown with blue only in basal area and mostly white fringe. Below, wings are two-toned with gray at the base and copper toward the edges. Hindwing has four pronounced marginal dots with iridescence.
Wingspan: Small; 1/2 to 3/4 inch.
Habitat: Salty marshes, alkaline and other disturbed areas; plains, foothills.
Flight Times: Spring to fall in southern U.S.; northern sightings are probably emigrants or their summer offspring.
Larval Foodplant: Goosefoot family such as lambsquarters, salt bush, and Russian thistle.
Did You Know…
This is the smallest butterfly occurring in North America. It is slow and low flying and easily overlooked.
