North Island Boulder Copper
Common NameNorth Island Boulder Copper
Scientific NameLycaena boldenarum
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, purple, black
HabitatRocky areas, riverbeds, shingle, open grasslands
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (North and South Islands)
Host PlantsMuehlenbeckia axillaris, Muehlenbeckia complexa
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the host plant, larvae feed on the leaves, and pupation occurs near the host plant. Multiple generations can occur annually.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive purplish sheen on the forewings, and its association with *Muehlenbeckia* host plants in rocky, open habitats.
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent purplish-brown forewings marked with black spots, and plainer dark brown hindwings. The body is dark and hairy.
