Large Blue Butterfly
Image courtesy Keith Warmington, Butterfly Conservation
DID YOU KNOW?
The Large Blue Butterfly’s life cycle is linked to a species of red ant!
A Most Unusual Story..
The Large Blue has one of the most fascinating life-cycles because of its close association with the red ant. The Large Blue caterpillars resemble ant grubs and use this likeness to their advantage to trick the ants into carrying them into the heart of their nests. Once inside they feast upon the ant grubs and live in the nest for up to two years. The caterpillar then transforms into a chrysalis which produces a song mimicking the queen ant, which further ensures its protection. The discovery of this symbiotic relationship between ant and butterfly was crucial to the successful re-introduction of the species.
The Large Blue became extinct in the UK in 1979 and is threatened across the world, but the commitment and dedication of conservationists has led to its re-introduction to a few sites in Southern England. This is only one among the many blue butterfly species.
CURRENT STATUS:
This species is listed as endangered in Europe.
CHALLENGES:
An important factor that limits the Large Blue’s habitation is that because of its unique relationship with the red ant, a site will only support the Large Blue if it is also suitable for the ant. The Large Blue has very specific habitat requirements and an extremely complex life cycle. The caterpillars of this species feed on wild thyme and wild marjoram but plants are not the only nourishment they require (another source of nourishment being the ant grubs).
Large Blue Butterfly, Butterfly Conservation
LARGE BLUE BUTTERFLY
LARGE BLUE BUTTERFLY
Butterfly Conservation
The Large Blue project is carried out by a collaborative partnership between Butterfly Conservation, Center for Ecology and Hydrology, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, J&F Clark Trust, National Trust, Natural England, Network Rail, Somerset Wildlife Trust, South Somerset District Council, Spalding Associates and the University of Oxford.
Our allies at Butterfly Conservation have suggested that if you would like to help protect the Large Blue you can volunteer, donate or help spread the word about this fascinating butterfly. To find out more about how you can get involved visit www.butterfly-conservation.org
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