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Pyrus malvae
Grizzled Skippers are tiny butterflies that can be easily overlooked. Nationally, this species is in decline, but in Sussex it is doing reasonably well, as Wild Strawberry, its main larval foodplant, is a common wildflower on the South Downs. Colonies are usually small and rarely exceed 30 individuals.
Given a reasonable view it is not difficult to identify. The upperside is a charcoal background, on which there are well-defined scattered blocks of white, and on the margins of the wings there is a very bold black-and-white fringe.
The first adults usually emerge in the first two weeks of April, with peak numbers recorded in May. Territorial males bask prominently on bare soil or very short vegetation and dog-fights between neighbouring males are common. In truth, this tiny pugnacious butterfly is willing to do battle with just about any other butterfly that dares to fly over its patch. They are a joy to watch.
Visit downland sites such as Chantry Hill at TQ0812, Cissbury Ring from TQ137076 to TQ141078 (via TQ139082), Levin Down at SU8813, Mill Hill at TQ211071, Well Bottom & Cow Wish Bottom at TQ4505 and TQ4504.
Grizzled Skipper with open wings – photo by Dave Browne
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Nectaring on Birdsfoot Trefoil – photo by Martin Kalaher
With open wings – photo by John Williams
At roost – photo by John Williams
A very dark individual - photo by Graham Hubbard
A very pale individual (ab. taras) – photo by Nicholas Turner
Butterfly Conservation Grizzled Skipper
