Rosy grizzled skipper
Common NameRosy grizzled skipper
Scientific NamePyrgus onopordi
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)26
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, gray
HabitatDry grasslands, rocky slopes, open scrubland, forest clearings
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa
Host PlantsPotentilla recta, Potentilla argentea, Agrimonia eupatoria
Flight PeriodApril to June (first brood), July to September (second brood)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, often creating shelters, and typically overwinter as pupae or sometimes as larvae.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific arrangement of white spots on the forewings and hindwings, and a prominent checkered fringe. The hindwing underside can sometimes show a rosy flush, giving it its common name.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings heavily marked with numerous white spots and a distinctive checkered white and dark brown fringe. Its body is hairy and grayish.
