Lovebug vs Alpine Blue

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lovebug Alpine Blue
Scientific Name Plecia nearctica Albulina orbitulus
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Bibionidae Lycaenidae
Size 6-9 mm 24-30 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Grasslands
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions North America, Central America Alps, Scandinavia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Lovebug

A small black march fly famous for flying in mated pairs connected end to end for days. Massive swarms occur twice yearly in the southeastern United States, causing significant nuisance.

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Did You Know?

Their acidic body chemistry can damage car paint if not washed off quickly, costing motorists millions annually.

Alpine Blue

A small, silvery-blue butterfly found only in high alpine grasslands. Males have pale blue uppersides while females are brownish.

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Did You Know?

It is restricted to a narrow altitudinal band and rarely descends below 1800 meters.