Large Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanus)
This familiar butterfly is distributed widely throughout Europe, including Britain. A lthough called 'Large' this is still a relatively small butterfly and not much larger than either the Small or Essex Skippers. It has rich colours and markings on its upper wing, with males having a dark line on the forewing.
Habitat
This species is found in sheltered areas of grassland, where grasses grow tall, such as meadows, hedgerows, roadside verges, and woodland clearings.
Behaviours
Like the many Skippers, the males are very aggressive and will defend their territory vigorously, and see off any butterfly that intrudes.
Feeding
Adults are attracted to various flowers but have a distinct liking for Bramble flowers. Caterpillars’ like Cock’s-Foot, but other foodplants include False Brome and Meadow Foxtail.
Life cycle
Eggs are laid in strings of the caterpillars’ foodplant from July to August. Larvae emerge after 3 weeks, before eating their eggs and entering hibernation over winter in a protective cocoon. Adults emerge in late June.