Description

Body length 9 - 10mm. This species is completely metallic blue/black with the wings tinted dark.

Habitat

Hedgerows and gardens. The larvae eat the foliage of Berberis species and the adults take pollen and nectar from umbelliferous plants.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in the southern half of Britain, which it has rapidly colonised since about 2002. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and common at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June to August.