Male. Taken at Hackpen Hill, Oxon., on May 15th 2023. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f10)

Underside. Taken at Seven Barrows, Berks, on June 5th 2021. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f22)

Female. Taken at Seven Barrows, Berks, on May 7th 2011. (© David Hastings)
(1/320th sec at f11)

Mating pair. Taken at Hackpen Hill, Oxon., on June 5th 2021. (© David Hastings)
(1/640th sec at f11)

Description

Family: Hesperiidae

Wing span: 27 - 34 mm

This is probably the most moth-like British butterfly. Its colours are usually quite muted except on newly-emerged individuals.

It is found over much of Britain but its distribution is rather patchy except in southern England. Like the Grizzled Skipper it has been in a slow decline owing to habitat loss.

This butterfly is found in warm open areas such as south-facing chalk and limestone downland, open hillsides, railway embankments, dunes, cliffs and abandoned quarries. It can also be found at the ends of woodland as well as in woodland clearings and rides.

The Dingy Skipper is on the wing in May and June. In favourable years there may be a partial second brood. It overwinters as a larva.

The primary larval foodplant is Bird's-foot Trefoil(Lotus corniculatus). Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil (Lotus pedunculatus) and Horseshoe Vetch (Hippocrepis comosa) are also used.

Adults feed primarily on Bird's-foot Trefoil, Bugle, Buttercups, Hawkweeds, Ragged Robin and Vetches.

Dingy Skippers have a very rapid flight which is difficult to follow. They are often found basking on the ground or on vegetation.

Vulnerable

Earliest UK sighting: 12th April ; Latest UK sighting: 6th August

Sightings