Large Chequered Skipper
Common NameLarge Chequered Skipper
Scientific NameHeteropterus morpheus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHeteropterinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Primary Colorscream, dark brown
HabitatDamp meadows, forest clearings, marshy areas, often near water
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, extending eastwards into Asia
Host PlantsMolinia caerulea, Brachypodium sylvaticum, Calamagrostis canescens
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grasses and overwinter in a hibernaculum at the base of the plant, pupating in a loose cocoon among grass blades.
Identification TipsLook for its characteristic large, squarish, creamy-white spots on a dark brown background on both the upper and underside of the wings. Its flight is typically fast and low to the ground.
Description
This skipper has dark brown wings heavily marked with large, squarish, creamy-white spots, giving it a distinctive chequered appearance. The underside is similar but often paler.
