Great Copper (Lycaena xanthoides [Boisduval])
Wing span: 1 1/4 - 1 3/4 inches (3.3 - 4.4 cm).
Identification: Gray above with orange band and black spots along edge of hindwing. Below tan with black spots. Orange trim on hind trim on hindwing.
Life history: Males perch and patrol flats and streambeds in search of receptive females.
Flight: May to mid-August, usually late May to mid-July.
Caterpillar hosts: Several dock species.
Adult food: Flower nectar.
Habitat: Open foothills and valleys.
Range: Southern Oregon south through westside California to extreme northern Baja California.
