Sussex Branch

Butterfly Species in Sussex

Description

This species can be found more-or-less anywhere in Sussex, although rarely in large numbers. Small Coppers live in small close-knit colonies and although it might be relatively easy to see 2-3 individuals, it’s not often we manage to record double figures. The principal larval foodplants are Common Sorrel and Sheep’s Sorrel and both of these native plants are common and widespread.

With its distinctive copper and black markings this is a very recognisable butterfly.

The first adults usually emerge in mid-April and this first brood flies until mid-June. The flight period for the more numerous second-brood is late June until late August. There is a third-brood, from early September through to late October. Occasionally, there is even a fourth brood in November.

Where to find

Anywhere in Sussex, but favoured sites include Cissbury Ring from TQ137076 to TQ145080 (via TQ139082), Hope Gap at TV509974, Kingley Vale NNR from SU822102 to SU822109, Lullington Heath NNR at TQ5401 and Well Bottom at TQ4505.

Image gallery

Small Copper nectaring on Corn Marigold – photo by Martin Kalaher

Nectaring on Betony

Side view of an individual nectaring on Ragwort

Nectaring on Ox-eye Daisy

Nectaring on Devilsbit Scabious

A mating pair

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More information

Butterfly Conservation Small Copper