Large Skipper
(Ochlodes sylvanus), Elmley Nature Reserve
Species description

© - Nick Greatorex-Davies
The Large Skipper is a common butterfly that occurs in distinct colonies in sheltered uncut grassland in such situations as open scrub, along hedgerows and woodland rides and glades where its larvae feed on coarse grasses, particularly Cock's-foot (Dactylis glomerata). The species is expanding its range in Britain though colonies continue to be lost within its range due to habitat loss. (For further details on this species see www.butterfly-conservation.org/).


Status
Resident
Status since 1976 is Rapid decline with a change of -31.5% since monitoring began for this species.
Status over the last 20 years is Stable with a change of -18.9%
Status over the last 10 years is Stable with a change of -27.3%

ukbms.org/species/large-skipper