Small Skipper?

[craigbirdphotos]

Hi

can someone please identify this Skipper.

Thanks, Craig.

[David M]

Hard to be absolutely certain (though location and date would be helpful).

For me, there isn't enough to suggest Essex Skipper, given the angle.

Having spent copious hours studying this species, I'm always mindful that once you get in a proper position then if it IS Essex, it screams out at you due to the really 'inky' antennal undersides.

Have you any more images?

[craigbirdphotos]

Hi David,

It was photographed in Bentley Wood today. All the images are very similar.

Thanks, Craig.

[David M]

Hi David,

It was photographed in Bentley Wood today. All the images are very similar.

Thanks, Craig.

Craig, I was at Bentley Wood myself yesterday and checked several Skippers, but all turned out to be Small rather than Essex.

If you want a guaranteed lineola, may I suggest a visit to the magnificent Aston Rowant, near Oxford, in about a fortnight's time, where you will also see Chalkhill Blues in obscene numbers, as well as copious Silver Spotted Skippers.

[craigbirdphotos]

Thanks David.