Small Skipper
Common NameSmall Skipper
Scientific NameThymelicus sylvestris
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, roadside verges, woodland clearings
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia; introduced to North America
Host PlantsYorkshire Fog, Timothy, Cocksfoot, False Oat-grass
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on grass blades. Larvae feed on grasses, overwintering as small larvae within silk-lined leaf sheaths. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its plain orange-brown wings, the male's short, straight scent mark on the forewing, and the plain, unspotted underside of the hindwing.
Description
A small, robust butterfly with warm orange-brown wings, often appearing plain. Males have a distinctive short, dark scent mark on their forewings.
