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

 Bronze Copper

The bronze copper is not as common in Ohio as it once was due to modern agricultural practices and the disappearance of wetlands.

Bronze Copper
Lycaena hyllus

At-a-Glance

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

• Wings: 1.5 - 2 inches
Description
The bronze copper has a very distinct underside that separates it from all other Ohio butterflies. The males have bronze colored dorsal forewings and the females have orange dorsal forewings with black spots.

Habitat and Habits
The bronze copper inhabits wet meadows, mud flats, and moist fields. It can be found throughout Ohio, and is most common in the non-forested parts of the state.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae of the bronze copper feed on water dock and curled dock.