Violet Copper
Common NameViolet Copper
Scientific NameLycaena helle
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)26
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown
HabitatWet meadows, bogs, fens, forest clearings, often in damp areas with its host plant.
Geographic RangeNorthern and Central Europe, extending east through Siberia to the Amur region.
Host PlantsBistort (Bistorta officinalis)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of Bistort. Larvae feed on the host plant and typically overwinter before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, bright orange upperwings with numerous black spots, and the presence of a violet sheen on the upperside of fresh specimens, particularly males, visible at certain angles. The underside is duller with a clear pattern of black spots.
Description
A small butterfly with vibrant orange upperwings heavily marked with black spots, and a distinct orange marginal band on the hindwings. The underside is a duller brownish-orange with a similar pattern of black spots.
