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Erynnis tages
This species can be found in a wide variety of habitats, but all the larger colonies in Sussex are located on downland. The principal larval food plants are Horseshoe Vetch on chalk, and Birdsfoot Trefoil, elsewhere. This is another species that favours a relatively short sward, and lightly-grazed chalk turf provides the ideal habitat. Away from downland Dingy Skippers are well-distributed throughout the county forming small colonies in habitats such as quarries, woodland rides, and any marginal patch of land where Birdsfoot Trefoil thrives.
The Dingy Skipper has a complex, intricate wing pattern with an attractive variety of browns and greys. With its big head, big body, and relatively small wings, it is more “moth-like” than any other UK butterfly species.
The first adults emerge mid-to-late April, usually peaking in the second half of May with a few stragglers surviving until early July. In most years, there are a few records of second-brood individuals from late July until mid/late August.
This species is well-distributed throughout the county, but the largest colonies are found on downland sites such as Chantry Hill at TQ085123, Castle Hill at TQ368068, Heyshott Escarpment at SU899168, Mill Hill at TQ211071 and Well Bottom at TQ 4505.
Female Dingy Skipper nectaring on a garden Geranium – photo by Martin Kalaher
Territorial male – photo by David Cook
Male nectaring on Ground Ivy – photo by David Cook
Male perched on flowerhead – photo by David Cook
Roosting Dingy Skipper – photo by David Cook
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Female Dingy Skipper nectaring on Birdsfoot Trefoil – photo by Martin Kalaher
Butterfly Conservation Dingy Skipper
