Although the Large Skipper also generally has black tips, its antennae ends are usually more bulbous than those of the Essex and Small Skipper, these two features can’t always be relied on as definitive as they can sometimes vary. The Essex Skipper has very distinctive, inky black antenna underside tips whereas the similarly sized Small Skipper has orange-brown coloured antennae underside tips. ![]() ![]() The surest way to identify and tell the three most common Skipper butterflies apart is to get a photo or good look of the underside of the tips of the butterfly's antennae. So just how do you tell these three oft-seen Skipper butterfly species apart? Get a Mug Shot All three of our most common Skipper butterflies are small, similarly coloured and rather flighty, in fact the Essex Skipper and Small Skipper look so alike that the Essex Skipper was only recognised as a separate butterfly species in 1889. Skipper butterfly identification is a challenge. At this time of year they can readily be seen "skipping" amongst the hedgerow flowers and meadow grasses of East Anglia alongside their similar looking cousins, the Small Skippers and Large Skippers, sometimes in the company of the larger meadow species such as Meadow Brown, Gatekeeper and Ringlet butterflies. These charming, vivid orange little butterflies have extended their range recently and seem perfectly happy living two counties further North than their namesake county. Ssshh…Don't tell the Essex Skippers, we're in Norfolk!
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