Small Skipper
Thymelicus sylvestris
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Small Skipper arrived on the Sefton Coast in the mid-1990s — a rapid northward colonisation that coincided with warming summers. In Merseyside it was previously unknown north of the Wirral. Now it's firmly established and common on the tall rough grassland of the dune system. The burnt-orange wings held at the distinctive 'jet' angle (forewings raised, hindwings flat) are the classic skipper look. They dash between grass flowers with rapid, buzzing flight.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Hesperiidae |
| Habitat | Tall dune grassland · Rough grassland · Scrub edge with tall grasses |
| Diet | Adults: thistles, Bramble, knapweed. Larvae: Yorkshire Fog and other grasses. |
| UK population | Common in England; expanding northward |
| Sefton Coast | Established since the mid-1990s; now common on tall rough grassland throughout the Sefton Coast |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Tall rough grassland and scrub edges at Ainsdale NNR and Formby. Feeds on tall grass flowers.
Identification
Small, orange-brown butterfly. Rounded orange wings. Rests with forewings raised and hindwings flat — distinctive 'jet' posture. Underside: uniform orange-buff. Orange antennal tips with black undersides (key feature separating from Essex Skipper which has black tips all round).
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk tall rough grassland at Ainsdale in July. They rest on grass and flower stems with the characteristic wings-raised posture. Active in bright sunshine but stop feeding in cloud.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Small Skippers reach the Sefton Coast?
Small Skippers were unknown north of the Mersey until the mid-1980s. Their rapid northward spread is attributed to a sequence of warm summers that allowed the species to colonise suitable habitat beyond its previous range limit. First recorded at Altcar Rifle Range in 1996, they spread rapidly across the Sefton Coast dunes over the following years.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.