Gorgon Copper
Common NameGorgon Copper
Scientific NameLycaena gorgon
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, orange
HabitatChaparral, open woodlands, foothills, rocky slopes
Geographic RangeCalifornia, USA
Host PlantsEriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum nudum, Eriogonum latifolium
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves or stems. Larvae feed on the leaves, pupation occurs near the host plant, and the species typically overwinters as an egg or young larva.
Identification TipsLook for the pale greyish-white underside with prominent black spots and a row of orange submarginal spots on the hindwing. Males have a bright, iridescent copper dorsal surface, while females are duller orange-brown.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale greyish-white underside adorned with numerous black spots. The hindwing features a distinctive submarginal band of orange spots.
