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Ochlodes sylvanus
This meadow skipper can be found more-or-less anywhere in Sussex, wherever there are sufficient clumps of coarse grass species, but especially Cocksfoot, which is its preferred larval foodplant.
The male perches prominently in defence of its territory and will usually allow a close examination. The broad, black sex-brands running across the forewings are very distinctive. By contrast we do not often see the females, for once mated, they tend to keep a low profile.
The first adults typically emerging in the last week in May and with a long flight period this skipper species can be seen right throughout the summer months, until the end of August.
Wherever there is plenty of Cocksfoot or other coarse grass species. Colonies are usually small , but larger colonies may be found at Chantry Hill at TQ0812, Eartham Wood at SU940106, a circular walk via SU941113, SU948117 and SU951114, Fairmile Bottom LNR from SU988093 to SU980089, Friston Forest and Gallops from TV527993 toTV544986 and TV544991 to TV544997, and Graffham Down Trust reserves from SU910163 to SU926161.
Male Large Skipper nectaring on Greater Knapweed – photo by Martin Kalaher
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Female at rest
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Male with closed wings
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Male nectaring on Dames Violet
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Female nectaring on Field Scabious
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Territorial male
Butterfly Conservation Large Skipper
