Eastern Tailed-Blue
Cupido comyntas
What it is
The eastern tailed-blue or eastern tailed blue (Cupido comyntas), also known as Everes comyntas, is a common butterfly of eastern North America. It is a medium-sized butterfly that is distinguished from other blues in its range by the small thin tail.
Where and when to find it
- Habitat
- Very common and found across almost all of the United States. They love open sunny areas like meadows, fields, gardens, and roadsides.
- How to find it
- Look for them fluttering low over clover and other small flowers in sunny spots. They are small and quick, so watch carefully!
- Best time of day
- Daytime, especially sunny mornings and afternoons; spring to fall.
How it lives
- What it eats
- Nectar from flowers as an adult. Caterpillars eat clover and other legume plants.
- What eats it
- Birds, spiders, predatory insects.
Worth knowing
- The 'tail' on their wings is meant to trick predators into attacking the wrong part of their body.
- Males are usually more brightly blue than females.
- They often land with their wings folded upwards.
- Their caterpillars are sometimes tended by ants, which protect them from predators.
- They are one of the most common butterflies you might see in your garden.
- The blue color on their wings is made by tiny scales that reflect light!
Why it matters
Eastern Tailed-Blues pollinate flowers as they drink nectar. Their caterpillars are food for some birds and insects.