Grizzlies ...

West Sussex, 10 June 2013

The tiny Grizzled Skipper (Pyrgus malvae) typically occurs in small colonies of less than 100 individuals. It is found in England south of a line extended from West Gloucestershire in the west to North Lincolnshire in the east, with strongholds in central and southern England. There are scattered colonies further north and in Wales. This species is absent from Scotland, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. Despite the suggestion in its specific name, malvae, P. malvae larvae do not feed on flowers of the mallow genus; though several closely related European species do feed on Malvaceae.

The adult emerges in late April, the first of the British Skipper species, and usually flies until the end of June. There is one generation each year, although there may be a small second brood in some seasons, when conditions are favourable.

This is a warmth-loving species, and both sexes bask in the sun for long periods, typically on a stone, leaf or bare earth. This is an active insect which will fly at most times the day, and even into the evening, if conditions are warm enough. 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 butterfly can be found roosting on heads of flowers and grasses during cool weather and at night.

Out and about ...

West Sussex, 23 May 2012

With just 45 minutes to spare before heading off to collect my son, I arrived at a very hot and humid Springhead Hill at 3pm. A quick scout around produced a number of species including Dingy Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, Holly Blue, Small Blue and five Duke of Burgundy, including a pristine egg-laying female.

Before dinner I took myself off for a short walk. I headed off through the small copse to the rear of my house and out into the area known locally as Alder Platt Meadow. I was rather pleased I did, as after only a short time I located several Grizzled Skipper taking in the last of the afternoon sun before going down to roost; the female below my favourite. I have never seen Grizzled Skipper in this location before, though I expect this is more down to an oversight on my part than a new colony.

With perfect light and calm conditions I set to work …