American Copper

Lycaena phlaeas

This species is found in all of the world's far northern arctic regions, where it lives in high mountain meadows. It is quite common in the northeastern states in a variety of habitats. Butterfly experts think that this species was imported to New England from Europe and that the American Coppers in the eastern U.S. are a result of this introduction.

Look For : Fore wings are bright orange with dark spots and dark border. Hind wings have a red-orange band near the edge on the underside.

Length : 7/8-1 1/8".

Habitat : Meadows, fields, roadsides; alpine areas.

Range : Widespread; more common in the East.