By becoming a member of Butterfly Conservation today you can do something important not just for Britain's butterflies and moths but for the planet as whole.
What you'll receive
Members will receive a fantastic pack including a set of collectible postcards, access to our nature reserves, a subscription to our exclusive magazine 3 times a year, plus more!
Bright copper with brown spots and brown margin. Undersides orange-brown with spots.
The Small Copper is usually seen in ones and twos, but in some years large numbers may be found at good sites. Males are territorial, often choosing a piece of bare ground or a stone on which to bask and await passing females. They behave aggressively towards any passing insects, returning to the same spot when the chase is over.
Though it remains a common and widespread species, the Small Copper declined throughout its range during the twentieth century. Widespread through Britain and Ireland, and occasionally visits gardens.
Size and Family
Family – Coppers
Small Sized
Wing Span Range (male to female) - 32-35mm
Conservation status
UK BAP status: Not listed
Butterfly Conservation Priority: Low
European status: Not threatened
Caterpillar Foodplants
Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and Sheep's Sorrel (R. acetosella) are the main foodplants. Broad-leaved Dock (R. obtusifolius) may be occasionally used.
Distribution
Countries – England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
Throughout Britain and Ireland except the uplands of northern Britain
Distribution Trend Since 1970’s = Britain: -16%
Habitat
Occurs in a wide variety of habitats. Commonly found on chalk or unimproved grassland, heathland, woodland clearings, waste ground and moorland. Warm, dry conditions are favoured.
