This is Ireland’s only species of copper, since the Large Copper (which was introduced) has since become extinct. It is a small, sun-loving species with a fast flight. In Ireland it is generally more prevalent in coastal localities, but in continental Europe it can be just as common inland. Here, it is usually the commonest copper species, being more of a generalist compared to its relatives.

Distribution: All Europe.

Flight Period: Generally May -October in two or three broods, but can be seen almost all year in southern Europe.

Habitat: Coastal dunes, dry grassland, brownfield sites, scrub, bogland margins field margins, maquis and woodland edges up to 2400m.

Foodplants: Primarily Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa), but will take other docks and sorrels (Rumex), as well as knotgrasses (Polygonum).

Nectar Sources: A wide range of flowers including Ragwort (Jacobaea vulgaris), Thistles (Cirsium), Brambles (Rubus), Marjoram (Origanum majorana), Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and Buttercup (Ranunculus).

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