Maui's copper
Common NameMaui's copper
Scientific NameLycaena editha mauiensis
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen grassy areas, subalpine shrubland, dry forest edges
Geographic RangeMaui, Hawaii, USA
Host PlantsRumex spp.
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in suitable conditions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, and pupation occurs near the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, bright orange upperside with black spots and a black marginal band. Specific identification to subspecies level often requires geographic location and detailed examination of markings.
Description
A small, vibrant orange butterfly with prominent black spots on the forewings and hindwings, and a distinct black border along the wing margins. The body is dark.
