Europe
Small copper
Scientific name Lycaena phlaeas
- Wingspan
- 26-36 mm
- Max age
- 2-3 weeks
- Rarity
- common
About this butterfly
The Small Copper is a compact butterfly with bright coppery-orange forewings dotted with black. Hindwings are darker, often with a copper band. Males are territorial and chase rivals from a prominent perch. Several broods fly from spring to autumn on grassland, heath, dunes and waste ground. Adults take nectar from small flowers, including composites and knapweeds. The main larval hosts are Common Sorrel and Sheep's Sorrel. It remains widespread in much of Europe, though local numbers track the fate of lean, open habitats. The flight is quick and low. Females lay eggs on sorrel leaves. Warm, short turf with sorrel suits the species better than rank, fertilised grass.