Cinquefoil Skipper
Common NameCinquefoil Skipper
Scientific NamePyrgus cirsii
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatDry grasslands, open woodlands, clearings, meadows, often on calcareous soils.
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards into parts of Asia.
Host PlantsPotentilla erecta, Potentilla argentea, Potentilla neumanniana
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of cinquefoil host plants. Larvae feed on the leaves and overwinter, pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for the specific arrangement of white spots on the dark wings, particularly the distinct white markings on the hindwing underside. The robust, hairy body and rapid, darting flight are also characteristic of skippers.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings featuring a distinctive checkered pattern of prominent white spots, especially on the forewings and hindwings, and a hairy body.
