Aegean Skipper
Common NameAegean Skipper
Scientific NamePyrgus melotis
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)26
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatDry, rocky slopes, garrigue, maquis, open grassy areas, often at moderate altitudes.
Geographic RangeEastern Mediterranean region, including Aegean islands (Greece), Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan.
Host PlantsPotentilla recta, Potentilla hirta
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, creating a shelter, and typically overwinter as larvae before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the strong, clear white spotting pattern on a dark brown background on both upper and underside of the wings, and the typical hooked antennae of skippers. The underside of the hindwing may show a greenish-yellow suffusion in fresh specimens.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings heavily marked with prominent white rectangular and square spots on both forewings and hindwings. The body is dark and hairy.
