Lycaenidae - The blues, coppers and hairstreaks
Many species of butterfly in this family are named after their striking colours. The ‘blues’ often have complex life cycles that involve intricate relationships with ants. Although fascinating, these interactions can make species complicated to conserve.
Pictured: common blue, Polyommatus icarus
To learn more about how they have fared over the last two centuries please select a species from the left hand menu.