The Eastern Tailed-Blue butterfly (Cupido comyntas) is named for the iridescent blue color of its upper wing surface, more vivid in the male, and for the short, thread-like tail on each hind wing. Females are often slate grey, sometimes with vivid blue coloration close to the body. This 2016 stamp depicts a first-generation male, which displays the species’ brightest coloration.  Each year sees two or more generations, the latter being less colorful.

Common east of the Rocky Mountains and in parts of the West, the Eastern tailed-blue butterfly's range also extends into Mexico, Central America, and southern Canada. This inch-wide butterfly thrives in sunny spots where vegetation is low to the ground, including meadows, forest clearings, vacant lots, and mown roadside grasses.