This is the largest of the ‘golden’ skippers found in Britain although the size difference is not always apparent when compared to its relatives, so the pale golden patches on the upperwings are a more reliable identification feature. It is fairly widespread and common in rural areas of southern England but more scarce further north. It is completely absent from Ireland however. It is also fairly common in suitable habitats in continental Europe.

Distribution: Most of Europe; absent from Ireland, northern Scandinavia, parts of the Iberian Peninsula and several Mediterranean islands.

Flight Period: May-September in 1 brood, peaking in June-July.

Habitat: Grassland, meadows, woodland edges, light scrub at a variety of altitudes.

Foodplants: Several species of grass (Poaceae).

Nectar Sources: Thistles (Cirsium), hawkweeds (Hieracium), clovers (Trifolium), knapweeds (Centaurea), Yellow Rattle (Rhinanthus minor), scabiouses (Knautia), lavenders (Lavandula) and other nectar-rich flowers.

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