Greenland Copper vs Bristly Tachinid Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Greenland Copper | Bristly Tachinid Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lycaena phlaeas polaris | Nowickia ferox |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Tachinidae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Greenland, Iceland, Arctic Scandinavia | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Greenland Copper
The Arctic subspecies of the small copper butterfly, smaller and darker than its temperate counterparts. The forewings are bright copper-orange with dark spots. It is one of few butterflies found in southern Greenland.
Did You Know?
The Greenland population is believed to have survived the last Ice Age in a coastal refugium, making it a true glacial relict.
Bristly Tachinid Fly
A large, heavily bristled tachinid fly with a gray-checkered pattern on the abdomen. It is conspicuously spiny and frequently visits flowers in late summer.
Did You Know?
Its exceptionally long and stiff bristles are thought to help prevent birds from swallowing it.