Small Copper butterfly on the north plot

The small copper is a small butterfly that is widespread through Britain and Ireland, and occasionally visits gardens. Bright copper with brown spots and brown margin. Undersides orange-brown with spots.

It occurs in a wide variety of habitats: chalk grassland, moorland, heathland, coastal dunes and undercliffs, woodland clearings, and unimproved grassland. This species may be found also in small patches of land such as set-aside fields, roadside verges, railway embankments, allotments, churchyards, and waste ground, even in cities. Warm, dry situations are especially favoured.

Additional information about butterflies and moths can be found on the Butterfly Conservation website here.