Ruddy Copper
Tharsalea rubidus (Behr, 1866)
Family: Lycaenidae
Status: Uncommon resident
NENHP Rank: S3 Tier 2
Range: The Ruddy Copper inhabits most of western North America north of Arizona and New Mexico and south of the Canadian border. In Nebraska its range is chiefly in the panhandle and sandhills.
Larval Hostplant(s): Most often associated with Winged Dock (Rumex venosus) in our area.
Broods/Flight Times: One June flight with outliers from May into late July.
Overwintering: As an egg.
Habitat: Sandhills and barrens where the hostplant thrives.
Avg. Wingspan: 1 1/8 – 1 5/8 inches
Found at: Gilbert-Baker SWMA, Nebraska National Forest@Halsey
Similar Species: Bronze Copper
Notes:
Ruddy Copper, Sioux County, J. Nikkila
