www.ukbutterflies.co.uk

This one has got me puzzled. Brentwood, Essex.
It's the size of a Small Heath and rested with wings closed, although it was cloudy.
When in flight, it's upper wings were clearly brown (fairly dark). I think it's an unusually small Meadow Brown, but it could be an unusual or worn Small Heath.

Any thoughts appreciated

I'd go for a very worn Meadow Brown. It might have started out paler than usual as well, and certainly small males are not much larger than a largish Small Heath.

Dave

I agree, I'd go for a small Meadow Brown. Even when butterflies are unusually light or dark, the underlying patterns remain and this one clearly has that MB look about it.

Thanks Millerd & Bugboy. Glad you agree