False Ilex Hairstreak - Satyrium esculi

Provence, July 2004

Portugal, June 1992

The false Ilex hairstreak is distinguishable from the Ilex hairstreak by the markings on the underside of the hindwing, as well, in the female, as a less prominent, or absent, orange flush on the upperside of the forewing (variable). Generally, the marginal white line on the underside of the hindwing is vestigial, and the orange spots are neatly edged internally with black, rather than bordered on both inside and outside in black.