A possible Essex Skipper?

[Mike Robinson]

Sorry to bother again but I would appreciate some guidance please.

I noticed this Butterfly earlier today in a Wild Flower Meadow close to the Ruins of Lesnes Abbey (in SE London).

I'm firstly thinking that my acquaintance is a male due to the (assumed) sex brand on the left-side wing.

And I understand that the sex-brand of the Essex Skipper is shorter than that of the Small Skipper. Also, that it runs parallel with forewing edge which seems to be the case here.

We cannot of course really see the underside of the tips of the antennae.

If I have got this completely wrong I apologise.

A million thanks in advance ~ Mike …..

[Neil Hulme]

Hi Mike,
Correct - and for the reasons you state.
BWs, Neil

[Mike Robinson]

Neil: thanks very much. The super-speedy response is very much appreciated. Mike ...