Size: 1.0 - 1.25 inches wingspan

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Key ID features:  Male lilac-blue above, with no black markings. Female dusky-blue, with few marginal spots ringed with gray, FW with dark bands on outer edge. Below, bright gray-white, with very light marginal band of chevrons, and small black spots. Below, gray discal bars on both FW and HW.

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Similar species: Light markings below with no tails or orange spots distinctive and usually easy to distinguish from other blues.

 

Host plant: Many shrub species including red osier dogwood, elderberry, madrone, snowbrush, and oceanspray.

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Habitat: Shrubby habitats and riparian areas. ​

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Range: Most of Oregon except dry basin and range areas on the east side of Cascade Mtns.

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Season: Late February to early October

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Abundance: Common

 

Conservation Status: Secure