Large Skipper Butterflies

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Scientific name:  Ochlodes venata

Size:  Wingspan approx 35mm

Distribution:  Found in most parts of England, Wales and southern Scotland

Months seen:  May to September

Habitat:  Mainly found in rough grassland and woodlands

Food:  Nectar.  The caterpillars feed on various grasses including Cock's-foot

Special features:  The Large Skipper butterfly is frequently mistaken for a large moth.  At rest it holds its forewings and hind wings apart at different angles.

The male Large Skipper has a black line, known as a 'sex brand', running diagonally through its orange forewings.  This is absent in the females.  The upper surfaces of the wings have a slightly mottled apprarance.  The edges of the wings have a black border and the undersides of the wings are a mixture of green and orange patches.

Related Pages

• UK Safari Butterfly Section
• UK Safari Caterpillar Section
• Identify other wildlife
• What's Out Now?