Identifying features
Male: the forewing upperside is a bright, shining golden orange, with a black border and outer margin. The hindwing upperside is similar.
Similar species
Can be confused with its relatives, large copper (Lycaena dispar) and sooty copper (Lycaena tityrus).
Distribution
Virgaureae are declining in many places across the country, especially on the islands, but are still common in West and East Jutland, as well as on Bornholm and most of Zealand. Virgaureae are very common in Middle Jutland and in North Zealand.
Biology
Often seen flying calmly with a slightly bouncing flight, but it can fly quickly if disturbed. The species is a keen flower visitor.