Red Copper
Common NameRed Copper
Scientific NameLycaena rubidus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black, white
HabitatDry open areas, sagebrush steppe, mountain meadows, clearings
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia south to California, east to the Dakotas and Colorado)
Host PlantsEriogonum umbellatum, other Eriogonum species
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves and overwinter. Larvae feed on leaves, and pupation occurs on or near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the dull brown underside with a distinct orange band on the hindwing and black spots. The upperside, when visible, is bright coppery red with black spots.
Description
A small butterfly with dull brown undersides featuring an orange submarginal band on the hindwing and black spots, some ringed with white. The upperside is typically bright coppery red with black spots.
