Which Skipper?

[polygro]

I took this photo yesterday but am unsure if it is a Small or an Essex.

Yes, I know the Essex is dark under the antennae (like an Essex girl with mascara - well, that's how I remember the difference between Small and Essex anyway ).



Is there a fool-proof way to ID the two??

Thanks

Polly

[djackso]

The Essex Skipper butterfly is almost identical to the Small Skipper butterfly but can be identified by the black underside to the clubs of the antennae - I assume that this is a small then.

[ChrisJB]

Yep, looks like a small to me too.

Regards, Chris

[CloudedYellow]

Definitely Small.

The orange on the underneath of the forewing does not reach the tip of the forewing.

[djackso]

Originally Posted by polygro

Yes, I know the Essex is dark under the antennae (like an Essex girl with mascara - well, that's how I remember the difference between Small and Essex anyway ).

I like this, by the way - it's easy to remember.

[naturegirl]

Hi Polly (same name as my beloved dog!) I love how you remember the difference, i.e. Essex girls and mascarra!!!

You go girl!!

Naturegirl