description Small Skipper Overview
The Small Skipper (Thymelicus sylvestris) is a butterfly in the family Hesperiidae that occurs across much of Europe and extends into parts of North Africa and the Middle East. Adults have rusty orange wings and can resemble the related Essex Skipper. A useful field distinction is the orange or yellow-orange underside of the antenna tips, whereas the corresponding area of the Essex Skipper is black. Its caterpillars feed mainly on grasses in meadows and other open habitats.
help Small Skipper FAQ
Where does the Small Skipper butterfly occur?
The Small Skipper, Thymelicus sylvestris, occurs across much of Europe. Its range also extends into parts of North Africa and the Middle East.
How can the Small Skipper be distinguished from the Essex Skipper?
The two species can look similar because both have rusty orange wings. Field identification commonly uses the antenna-tip pattern, with the Small Skipper having orange tips.
What is the scientific name of the Small Skipper?
Its scientific name is Thymelicus sylvestris. It is a skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae.
What color are Small Skipper wings?
Adults have rusty orange wings. The species is often compared with the related Essex Skipper because of this similar coloring.
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