Grizzled Skipper - Pyrgus malvae
The Grizzled Skipper is a characteristic spring butterfly of southern chalk downland and other sparsely vegetated habitats. Its rapid, low flying, darting flight can make it difficult to follow, but it stops regularly. Flies April-June, with a possible second brood July-August. The butterfly can be found roosting on heads of flowers and grasses during cool weather and at night.
Wings are black or dark brown with checker-board of white spots. Smaller than most Skippers, with more white markings especially on its hindwing. They rest with wings open. Both sexes very similar, the male has more angular wings.
This is a warmth-loving butterfly, and both sexes bask in the sun for long periods, typically on a stone, leaf or bare earth. This is an active butterfly which will fly at most times the day, and even into the evening, if conditions are warm enough. The butterfly uses several nectar sources, favourites being Bird’s-foot Trefoil and Buttercup. The male is somewhat territorial and will chase any butterfly, irrespective of size, from its area. Females entering the territory are courted for a short period and, if the female is receptive, pairing occurs. The females lay eggs singly on species of the Rosaceae family, usually Agrimony and Wild strawberry.
The Grizzled Skipper in Essex can only be found on Langdon Hill Ridge and this area is the north end of the Ridge.
Theis area has been especially cleared for natural translocation of the Grizzled Skipper.