Sooty Copper
Common NameSooty Copper
Scientific NameLycaena tityrus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale yellow, brown, black
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, dry open areas, heathlands, forest clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia Minor
Host PlantsRumex acetosa, Rumex acetosella
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on sorrels and docks (Rumex species) and overwinter as small larvae. Pupation occurs near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale yellowish-brown underside with numerous black spots. The upperside (not visible here) is typically a duller, 'sooty' brownish-orange compared to other copper species.
Description
A small butterfly with a pale yellowish-brown underside, densely covered with prominent black spots. The wing margins are fringed with white.
