Large Skipper, Ochlodes venata

Identification

Small: wingspan c 35mm.

Both sex's upper surfaces of the forewings are a warm mid-brown with large yellow to orange brown blotches on their inner two thirds. The veins are highlighted dusky brown and the outer margins of the wings are broadly bordered mid-brown. Males have a conspicuous black oblique scent gland on their forewings. The upper surfaces of the hind wings are similarly colour-patterned to those of the forewings, although the orange-brown markings are more restricted. The under wings are somewhat duller, greenish brown in ground-colouration with vague paler brown blotches on their outer halves.

Behaviour and life history

Like the Small Skipper, Thymelicus sylvestris, this species characteristically holds its upper wings obliquely upwards and away from the under wings when at rest. It also forms discrete colonies in rough grasslands, alternating periods of flying closely above the sward looking for a mate with extended periods of rest. Eggs are laid in late July and August with the caterpillars emerging shortly afterwards. The caterpillars overwinter in a tent of grass leaves held together with silk before emerging in the following spring, feeding and finally pupating in May to early June. Adults emerge in mid June or early July. The larval foodplant is almost exclusively Cocksfoot grass, Dactylis glomerata.

Where to look for it

The Large Skipper shares the same habitats as the Small Skipper, Thymelicus sylvestris, and both are often found together in rough grassland, field margins, hedgerows, woodland margins, rides and glades. It is commonly found in all Plymouths Local Nature Reserves, especially where there is rough grassland.

Distribution and status

Common and widespread throughout Plymouth wherever there is suitable habitat.

When to look for it

Mid June to early August.

Similar species

The characteristic resting pose with the angled forewings make this species separable from all others except the Small Skipper, Thymelicus sylvestris,which is smaller and lacks the patterning on the upper surfaces of the wings.

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