Description
When resting, the wings are in a typical
Skipper position with the tips
tilted upwards. It can be distinguished by the lighter
spots on the top and underside of the wings, but best by
the thorny end of the antennae. The top of the wings are rust-brown, and darker towards the edges. The dark veins on the wings
are clearly visible. In males have a dark-colored sex-brand on the
upper wing present. The underside of the wings is yellowish with light beige
spots.
The caterpillar is green with a brownish yellow head.The caterpillar alives and feeds in a tube
made of silk and coiled leaves of the foodplant. Hibernates as caterpillars.
Size
The wingspan of 30 mm. The mature caterpillar has a length of about 30 mm.
Habitat
They occur at varying locations such as grass lands, forest edges or
areas with light vegetation to 2000 meters altitude.
Foodplants
Various grasses including Dactylis glomerata (orchard grass), Molinia caerulea (purple moor grass), Brachypodium pinnatum (Tor-grass)
and Juncus effusus (soft rush).
Flight season
From mid May to September if two broods. From June until August in case of a single brood.
Distribution
Throughout Europe.