Bog Copper
Common NameBog Copper
Scientific NameLycaena epixanthe
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale tan, black, orange
HabitatBogs, fens, acidic wetlands
Geographic RangeNortheastern North America, Great Lakes region, parts of Canada
Host Plantscranberry
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on cranberry leaves. Larvae feed on cranberry and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars. Pupation occurs in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, preference for bog habitats, and the distinctive pale underside with black spots and a subtle orange band. Males have iridescent coppery-orange uppersides, while females are duller brown.
Description
A small butterfly with pale tan to grayish undersides marked with numerous small black spots. The hindwing underside features a faint, broken orange submarginal band.
