Essex Skipper (Thymelicus lineola)
August 2, 2011 in Butterflies by ChrisLuv
A locally common species on the limit of its northern range, this species is found locally in a few valley sites, and where it is found can be common, as this species likes to live in colonies. Its range has expanded this way from the south in recent years. See the interactive map below for a summary of recent records submitted/collected to/by the NBN.
Look for this species on the wing in July and August, at its local sites which include Bennerley Marsh, Awsworth Railway Cutting and Shipley Park/Reserve (principly around the path surrounding the settling lagoons) – the species favours rough grassland such as verges, embankments or cuttings and so there are plenty of other potential sites within the valley. Any other sites please let us know in the comments below.
There is just a single generation each year, with the larva emerging in spring, its principal food plant being Cock’s-foot (Dactylis glomerata). The pupal stages lasts about three weeks, with the pupa being formed from a tent of leaves attached to the bottom of the food-plant.
Identification of this species is tricky, due to its similarity with Small Skipper. Look at the underside of the tips of the antennae, they will be black in Essex Skipper and brown in Small Skipper; generally the Essex Skipper appears to have its antennae dipped in ink. See below for a typical Essex Skipper:
Very informative Chris will keep a look out for these.
Just to add, if you see the sex brand of the male this can also help in identification. On Small Skipper it is short and curved whereas in Essex it is longer and straighter. This is a bit easier to see from a distance and can help rule some individuals out quickly.
Simon