www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

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

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

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

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

Deborah wrote: ↑Sat Jun 12, 2021 7:07 pm 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

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

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

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.

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