Large copper ( Lycaena dispar)

The Large Copper (Lycaena dispar) is a strikingly beautiful butterfly in the family Lycaenidae. Known for its vivid copper-orange wings, this species is a symbol of successful conservation efforts in some regions. It is closely associated with wetlands and relies on specific plants, particularly water dock, for its survival.

Physical Description

• Size:
  • Wingspan: 37–45 mm, making it one of the larger copper butterflies.
• Coloration:
  • Males: Bright copper-orange with a darker border and subtle black spots on the forewings.
  • Females: Slightly duller, with more prominent black markings.
  • Undersides: Pale gray with orange and black markings for camouflage.
• Shape:
  • Compact and delicate, typical of Lycaenids.

Behavior

• Flight:
  • Swift and purposeful, often seen flying low among wetland vegetation.
• Activity Period:
  • Flies in June and July in most regions, with a single brood per year.
• Feeding:
  • Adults feed on nectar from flowers like clover, thistles, and marsh plants.

Habitat

• Found primarily in wetland environments, including:
  • Fens, marshes, and wet meadows.
  • Riverbanks and ditches with water dock (Rumex hydrolapathum).
• Requires habitats with host plants and nectar sources.

Life Cycle

1. Eggs:
   • Laid singly on the leaves of water dock and other dock species.
2. Larvae:
   • Green with faint stripes, feeding on dock leaves.
   • Undergo multiple molts before pupating.
3. Pupae:
   • Well-camouflaged, attached to low vegetation.
4. Adults:
   • Short-lived but highly active, focusing on mating and feeding.

Distribution

• Native to Europe and parts of Asia.
• Declined in western Europe due to habitat loss, but populations remain stable in parts of eastern Europe and Asia.
• Reintroduction efforts have been successful in some regions, such as the UK.

Conservation Status

• Vulnerable in many regions due to habitat destruction and drainage of wetlands.
• Conservation programs focus on wetland restoration and protection of water dock habitats.

Ecological Role

1. Pollination:
   • Contributes to the pollination of wetland flowers.
2. Food Web Contribution:
   • Preyed upon by birds, spiders, and other predators, especially in the larval stage.

Interesting Facts

1. Conservation Success:
   • The Large Copper is a flagship species for wetland conservation in Europe.
2. Wetland Specialist:
   • Its dependence on water dock ties its survival to wetland health, making it a sensitive ecological indicator.
3. Subspecies Variation:
   • Several subspecies exist, with variations in size and coloration depending on geographic range.

Summary

The Large Copper (Lycaena dispar) is a dazzling butterfly whose presence highlights the importance of preserving wetland ecosystems. Its vibrant orange wings and unique ecological role make it a cherished sight for butterfly enthusiasts and a symbol of conservation success in regions where it has been reintroduced. Protecting its habitats is essential for ensuring the survival of this remarkable species.

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