Lesser Fiery Copper
Common NameLesser Fiery Copper
Scientific NameLycaena thersamon
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, grey
HabitatDry grasslands, steppes, open meadows, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern Europe, Central Asia, parts of the Middle East
Host PlantsPolygonum aviculare, Rumex acetosella, Rumex crispus
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species typically overwinters as an egg. Larvae feed on various dock and knotgrass species, and there are usually two to three generations per year depending on the region.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of bright orange upperwings with black spots and the pale underside with a clear orange submarginal band on the hindwing. Males have a more intense fiery orange color.
Description
A small butterfly with fiery orange upperwings marked with prominent black spots. The underside is paler, typically greyish-white, with black spots and a distinct orange submarginal band on the hindwing.
