ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - American Copper

 American Copper


Photo by Jim McCormac 		This species is seldom found in large numbers. It seems to have been more common in the past than it is today. This may be the result of herbicides and the loss of pastureland that may limit its host plants.

American Copper
Lycaena phlaeas

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: May, June, July, August, and September

• Wings: 2.8 - 3.2 cm

• Peak Breeding Activity: early spring and fall
Description
This is a small, beautiful butterfly named for the bright copper color of its dorsal forewings. They have orange forewings with black spots and a dark outer wing margin, and a grayish upper hindwing with an orange border lined with black spots. The undersurface of the forewing is pale orange with black spots, and the hindwing a powder white with black spots and an orange band.

Habitat and Habits
The American copper inhabits old fields, meadows, and oak savannas. It can be found statewide.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of this species feed on sheep sorrel and, rarely, curled dock. They then take three weeks to mature before forming a chrysalis.