Essex or Small Skipper?

[Deborah]

I think this might be an Essex Skipper? Any help much appreciated!

[bugboy]

It's the third option Deborah, a Large Skipper . The other two don't have the faint mottling on the underside.

[Deborah]

well I hadn’t even considered that - seeing as it seemed so... ‘small’! Thanks for telling me.

[Deborah]

When you say ‘faint mottling on the underside’ do you mean the antennae?

[bugboy]

When you say ‘faint mottling on the underside’ do you mean the antennae?

No I mean on the underside of the wings, it's very faint in your pic, probably due to being photographed in bright sun, it's clearer in this image:
https://ukbutterflies.co.uk/album_photo.php?id=25834

[millerd]

I'd say that is a Large Skipper too. You can make out (just!) the little hook at the end of the visible antenna, as well as the other indicators Bugboy has mentioned.

Cheers,

Dave

[Deborah]

Thanks both! I’d noticed the little hook at the end of the antennae, but didn’t know it was a ‘thing’.

[Chris L]

I hope that you don't mind me jumping on your thread with this Deborah.

I took a photo of this very dusky looking Large Skipper today. Quite limited on the gold.

[Deborah]

Hi! I didn’t get to see mine with the wings open. That’s a beauty you’ve got there!