The Common Blue can frequently be found in the garden. It is a small species, reaching a wingspan of no more than 30 mm. It is a very common species all over Europe, including the British Isles, except for Scandinavia and northern parts of Scotland. The caterpillar is keen on Holly and Ivy. The caterpillar excretes a sweet substance, which attracts ants. They protect the larva, much the same way they protect aphids. The butterfly appears wherever the foodplants can be found, so even in the busy areas of big cities, parks, graveyards and gardens. It usually occurs in two broods from May to September.