Greenland Copper vs Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Greenland Copper | Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lycaena phlaeas polaris | Episyrphus balteatus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | 7-12 mm |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Greenland, Iceland, Arctic Scandinavia | Europe, Asia, Africa |
| 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.
Hoverfly
Excellent Batesian mimics of wasps and bees. Important pollinators often overlooked. Can hover perfectly stationary in mid-air and even fly backwards.
Did You Know?
Hoverflies are so skilled at hovering that they can maintain their exact position in space even in strong winds, adjusting wing beats up to 300 times per second.