Coppers, Hairstreaks, Blues, and Harvesters

Family Lycaenidae

American copper (Lycaena phlaeas). Photo:Stephanie Boucher

Caterpillars of most species feed on foliage. Some species live in anthills and may be scavengers or predators. Other species secrete honeydew, which attracts ants who protect the larvae from predators. Some caterpillars in this family retract their head back into the body when threatened or resting. Small delicate butterflies that are often brightly coloured. They have a slender body, the antennae are ringed with a white stripe, and their eyes are circled with white scales. The bases of the antennae touch the eyes. Some species have a small tail at the end of the hindwing. The females have normal front legs but in the males they are reduced and lack tarsal claws. The larvae are flattened and sluglike.

Distribution of American copper (Lycaena phlaeas) in Canada