Scarce Copper
Common NameScarce Copper
Scientific NameLycaena virgaureae
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatFlowery meadows, forest clearings, damp grasslands, and woodland edges
Geographic RangeEurope and temperate Asia
Host PlantsRumex acetosa, Rumex crispus
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant, usually sorrel species. Larvae feed on the leaves, pupation occurs near the ground, and the species overwinters in the egg stage.
Identification TipsLook for the bright golden-orange upperwings with prominent black spots and a thin black margin. Males are typically brighter and lack the submarginal band of spots often present on female forewings.
Description
A small to medium-sized butterfly with vibrant golden-orange wings, featuring distinct black spots and a narrow black border. The underside is typically paler orange with a row of small orange spots near the margin.
