A small dark copper, the expanse of wings being about one inch, or
rather more. It is not found in England. On the upperside on all the
wings there is a marginal band of bright copper, the fore-wings have a
black spot about the centre of each. A fringe of white edges all the
four wings. The under widely differs from the upper side in colouring
and markings. The ground colour is light grey, freely dotted over with
black spots encircled by white. All four wings have the same bright
marginal copper band as seen on the upper side. The antennæ are black
or dark brown, finely dotted with white. It is somewhat rarely found
in fields and barrancos on high ground, but may be met with in larger
quantities in the pine forests. The time of its appearance is from
April to September. When comparing the Teneriffe specimen of this
butterfly with those of other countries at South Kensington, it was
noticed that the marginal copper band was broader on the Teneriffe
specimen, and it may be possible that it should be reckoned as a new
variety.
POLYOMMATUS or CHRYSOPHANUS PHLÆAS.
A copper butterfly, and a common English specimen, measuring from one
to one and a half inches across the wings. The fore-wings are of a
bright copper red, with large square black spots distinctly marked,
and an outer band of brown. The hind-wings are dark brown, having a
marginal copper band on the outer edge, which in some specimens is
surmounted by a few blue spots. The underside of the fore-wings is pale
copper, the hind-wings being grey, with minute black or dark brown
spots, and traces of a marginal band of copper. It is commonly found
from February to September in most places in Teneriffe, up to the
altitude of the pine forests. The larva feeds on a variety of Rumex
(dock or sorrel). Some specimens have been found much darker in colour
than those described above, the difference being so great as to suggest
the possibility of a distinct variety.