About Small Copper
A vivid little butterfly with burnished copper-orange forewings spotted with black. It is feisty and territorial for its size, frequently chasing other butterflies from its perch.
Did You Know?
Rare aberrant individuals have blue spots on the hindwing and are prized by collectors.
How to Identify Small Copper
Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Lycaenidae. Adults typically measure 26-36 mm wingspan.
Small Copper Habitat
Small Copper is found in heathland habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Small Copper Diet and Feeding
Small Copper feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Small Copper Found?
Small Copper can be found in Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America, where it inhabits heathland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Small Copper can be found
Is Small Copper Dangerous?
Small Copper is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Small Copper Role in Nature
Small Copper plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Copper
What does Small Copper look like?
The Small Copper typically measures 26-36 mm wingspan.
Where is Small Copper found?
The Small Copper is found in Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America and typically inhabits heathland environments.
What does Small Copper eat?
The Small Copper feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Small Copper dangerous to humans?
The Small Copper is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Small Copper?
Rare aberrant individuals have blue spots on the hindwing and are prized by collectors.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Small Copper (Lycaena phlaeas). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/small-copper
MLA:
"Small Copper." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/small-copper.