Bronze Copper

Lycaena hyllus

The Bronze Copper has been found throughout Wisconsin except for the northernmost counties, and is common in the southern counties. It is found in moister habitats than the American Copper, and edges of wetland areas are prime spots for this showy butterfly. The butterfly is often found perching on vegetation, but when good nectar sources like Swamp Milkweed, Boneset, or Goldenrod are present, they are often very easy targets for the camera as they nectar away the day.

Weekly sightings for Bronze Copper

Identifying characteristics

The upper surfaces of the male and females of this species are different. The male is mainly brownish, with a hint of purple that is best observed in fresh specimens. The hind wing margins of both the male and the females have orange bands.

The female differs in that the upper forewing has a copper-colored area with more obvious dark spots than the male. Below, the sexes are similar, with a large orange band on the hind wing margin, a very light color with black dots on the hind wing, and an orange/copper tinge to the front wing.

Similar species

The Gray Copper is very similar to the Bronze Copper below, but lacks the orange on the front wing, so its wings are a uniform whitish color.

Habitat

Wetlands and wetland edges where various species of docks and knotweeds are available as host plants.

Flight

2-3 broods, the first in early June.

Abundance

A common butterfly in the southern counties, becoming less common to the north.

Early Bronze Copper Sightings

Date County Reported by
May 22, 2012 Waushara Dan Sonnenberg
May 29, 2016 Shawano Rose Tiegs
Jun 2, 2012 Rock Karl and Dorothy Legler
Jun 4, 2021 Portage Scott and Ann Swengel
Jun 4, 2012 Marquette Dan Sonnenberg

Locations

Map showing sighting locations for Bronze Copper
Map key
Bronze CopperClick to enlarge

Female

Poygan Marsh, Waushara Co., WI, August 24, 2002.

Bronze CopperClick to enlarge

Male

Sandhill Wildlife Area, Wood Co., WI, July 6, 2003.

Bronze CopperClick to enlarge

Oberlin Inn garden, Oberlin, Lorain Co., OH, August 13, 2003.

Bronze CopperClick to enlarge

Poygan Marsh, Waushara Co., WI, July 3, 2003.

Bronze CopperClick to enlarge

Poygan Marsh, Waushara Co., WI, August 24, 2002.