Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Field notes and information

A large and distinctive species from southeast Europe.

Identification & Similar species: A large species with many bright white upperside spots. Very close to the spinose skipper, M cribrellum, with which it can fly in Romania but where it is extremely rare. Key to distinguishing it from this latter species is a triple pair of spots in space 2 on the upper forewing, there are only two pairs in the current species.

Distribution & Flight: Found sporadically in north Greece, FYROM, Bulgaria and Romania. Single brooded in May and June extending to August.

Habitat & Behaviour: Dry grassy slopes with scrubby patches.

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Cluj, Romania, June 2006

Cluj, Romania, June 2006