Skipper ID

[Lard]

Hi. I saw several skippers today that looked considerably darker - with more highly contrasting 'spots' - than the Larges that were also present. I got a couple of shots, but this was by no means the most distinct specimen. Was I looking at Silver-Spotted Skippers, or just strange Larges? I've not seen Larges this strong before.

Photos attached, including a blurry one showing more underwing. Thanks.

[Pete Eeles]

Hi Lard,

These are female Large Skippers, which lack the sex brand found on the forewings of the male.

Cheers,

- Pete

[Lard]

Excellent, thanks! I've never seen them with such white chequering on the forewings. Lovely.

[Piers]

Hi Lard,

This happens as the females age (your specimen has been out a while) and colours fade and scales are lost.

Piers.

Ps. 'Lard' - is this a Jello Biafra / Al Jourgensen reference? (if those names mean nothing to you then "no" )

[Lee Hurrell]

Ah, Wagner, Dead Kennedys and Ministry - I'm impressed PV!

Hurrell

[Lard]

It wasn't a Jello Biafra reference, I'm afraid. It just happens to be one of my favourite foods (after salt and rocket). Thanks for your description - that does make sense, since the Larges at the site (Hardwick Wood in Cambridgeshire) have now been joined by a fresh batch of Smalls and the difference in strength of colour is quite noticeable. Saw my first Purple Hairstreaks there too. Couldn't find the White Letter Hairstreaks, though - or the elms. Must have been looking in the wrong place.

Matt