Small Copper

Small Copper

Photograph of a Small Copper butterfly resting on a bramble leaf.

Small Copper

Small Copper

Photograph of a Small Copper butterfly resting on a bramble leaf.

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Latin: Lycaena phlaeas hibernica

Irish: Copróg bheag

The Small Copper is a resident of the area and is seen relatively regularly in the area, from May through to October, but only in small numbers.
 

Eggs, which are laid in common sorrel or broad-leaved dock, hatch after about a week. The caterpillar stage lasts from as little as 30 days but can be as long as 145 days when hibernating through the winter months. The chrysalis stage is about a month long.