Small Copper Butterflies

Identify It >   Butterflies Section >   Small Copper Butterflies >

Scientific name:  Lycaena phlaeus

Size:  Wingspan approximately 25mm

Distribution:  Found throughout the UK.  Less common in Scotland

Months seen:  May to October

Habitat:  Sandy heathland and woodland edges

Food:  Nectar

Special features:  Small Copper butterflies ares named after their bright copper coloured forewings, which are dotted with black spots and have a black border.

The Small Copper is a fast flying butterfly, and by daytime is almost constantly on the move.  Even when feeding, it rests with its wings half open (as above) ready for a lightning fast take off.  Should another insect enter its air space, the Small Copper swiftly drives it away.

These butterflies prefer sandy heathland, where their caterpillars can feed on their favourite food plant - sheep's sorrel.  The bright green caterpillars are covered with tiny hairs, and when viewed from above, their legs and head cannot be seen, so they just look like a part of the leaf they are eating.

In a good summer, the adults can produce three broods.  The first in May, the second in August and a third as late as October.

This is the last remaining copper butterfly in Britain since the Large Copper became extinct in the mid 1800's.  Attempts to re-introduce the Large Copper, so far, have been unsuccessful.  Experts have yet to determine the exact formula for their survival here.

Related Pages

• UK Safari Butterfly Section
• UK Safari Caterpillar Section
• Identify other wildlife
• What's Out Now?