Mallow Skipper
Common NameMallow Skipper
Scientific NameCarcharodus alceae
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey
HabitatOpen, dry, grassy areas, scrubland, disturbed ground, gardens, agricultural land
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Central Asia
Host PlantsMalva sylvestris, Malva neglecta, Alcea rosea
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on mallow leaves. Larvae feed on mallow, creating leaf shelters, and overwinter as larvae or pupae before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown and greyish-brown wings with dark spots and small translucent white spots. The antennae have characteristic hooked clubs. Often found near mallow plants.
Description
A small skipper with mottled brown and greyish-brown wings, featuring irregular dark brown to black spots and patches, along with small translucent white spots on the forewings.
