Small Copper

Lycaena phlaeas

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Forewing 15mm. Bright forewing is like shiny copper, with dark flecks and brown edges. Male is smaller than female, and has more pointed forewings. Larva is small and green.

HABITAT AND DISTRIBUTION

Gardens, flowery wasteland and heathland across Europe.

FOOD AND HABITS

Flies February–November. Two or three broods a year; adults from third brood rather small. Larvae feed on Common and Sheep’s Sorrel, and docks.

Large Copper

Lycaena dispar

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Forewing 20mm. Upperside of male is a brilliant coppery colour. Larger female is duller in colour, with mainly brown hindwings and a row of black spots on the forewing. Underside of the hindwing is silvery-grey spotted with black in both sexes. Larva is small and green.

HABITAT AND DISTRIBUTION

Wet places such as fens in central and south-eastern Europe; endangered due to land drainage. Extinct in Britain since 1851, though reintroduction has been attempted.

FOOD AND HABITS

Flies May–September, in 1–2 broods. Larvae feed on various dock species.