Fiery Copper
Common NameFiery Copper
Scientific NameLycaena thersamon
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown, black
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, meadows, forest clearings, roadsides
Geographic RangeSouthern and Eastern Europe, North Africa, temperate Asia to Mongolia and China
Host PlantsRumex acetosella, Rumex crispus, Rumex obtusifolius
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant leaves. Larvae feed on docks and sorrels, and pupation occurs near the ground. The species typically has multiple generations per year and overwinters as an egg or young larva.
Identification TipsLook for the bright, almost iridescent, fiery orange forewings with broad dark borders. The hindwings are generally darker, and the underside often features small black spots and a reddish submarginal line.
Description
A small butterfly with vibrant fiery orange forewings distinctly bordered in dark brown or black, and darker hindwings that may show an orange wash or faint markings.
