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
- Size: Small
- Wing Span Range (male to female): 32-35mm
Conservation Status
- GB Red List (2022): Least Concern
- 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.
Lifecycle
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.
Distribution
- Countries: England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
- Throughout Britain and Ireland except the uplands of northern Britain
- Abundance trend: -39% (1976-2019)
- Distribution trend: -37% (1970-2019)
Small Copper (upperwing) - Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing)
Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing) - Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing)
Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing) - Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing)
Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing) - Bob Eade
Small Copper (upperwing)
Bob Eade
Small Copper (underwing) - Ivan Lynas
Small Copper (underwing)
Ivan Lynas
Small Copper (underwing) - Adrian Kennerley
Small Copper (underwing)
Adrian Kennerley
Small Copper (underwing) - Bob Eade
Small Copper (underwing)
Bob Eade
Small Copper (underwing) - Peter Withers
Small Copper (underwing)
Peter Withers
Mark Searle
Small Copper (male & female)
Mark Searle
Small Copper (egg) - Gilles San Martin
Small Copper (egg)
Gilles San Martin
Small Copper (caterpillar) - Gilles San Martin
Small Copper (caterpillar)
Gilles San Martin
Small Copper (pupa) - Dean Morley
Small Copper (pupa)
Dean Morley