Northern Chequered Skipper
Common NameNorthern Chequered Skipper
Scientific NameCarterocephalus silvicola
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHeteropterinae
Wingspan (mm)26
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, black
HabitatDamp meadows, woodland clearings, forest edges, often near water
Geographic RangeNorthern and Central Europe, extending eastwards into temperate Asia
Host PlantsMolinia caerulea, Calamagrostis, Brachypodium sylvaticum
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed and overwinter, pupating in spring among grass blades.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, bright yellow-orange wings with prominent black spots, and its characteristic rapid, low-flying skipper flight. The underside of the hindwing is also yellow with black spots, often with a greenish tinge.
Description
A small, brightly colored skipper with a yellow-orange ground color heavily marked with distinct black spots on both forewings and hindwings, and a robust, hairy body.
