Holly Blue

National Status

Widespread in England and Wales, range expanding northwards. Population trend 10 years -61%; since 1976 +37%

West Midlands Status

Throughout the region but fewer records from west Herefordshire and north-east Staffordshire, range stable. Population trend 10 years – slight decrease.

Habitat

Woodland rides and edges, hedgerows, parks and gardens. Prefers shrubby vegetation unlike the other blue butterflies.

Flight Period

Hotspots

In almost any of its preferred habitats.

Caterpillar Food Plant

The main foodplants are Holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Ivy (Hedera helix). Bramble (Rubus fruticosus), Dogwoods (Cornus spp.), Gorses  (Ulex spp.), Snowberries (various) (Symphoricarpos spp.) and Spindle (Euonymus europaeus)