The Small Copper
Image: Mutney (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameThe Small Copper
Scientific NameLycaena phlaeas
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, grey
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, heathland, gardens, waste ground, open woodland
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America)
Host PlantsSorrel (Rumex spp.), Sheep's Sorrel (Rumex acetosella)
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. The larvae are green and feed on sorrel species. Pupation occurs near the ground, and the species overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, bright copper-orange forewings with distinct black spots, and the dark hindwings featuring a clear orange band along the margin. Often seen basking with wings open.
Description
A small butterfly with brilliant copper-orange forewings adorned with black spots and a dark border. The hindwings are typically dark grey or brown with a prominent orange submarginal band.
