Spialia therapne
Corsican Red Underwing Skipper
Sardinia, Italy, May 2003
Field notes and information
Endemic to Corsica and Sardinia where it replaces the very similar red underwing skipper S. sertorius.
Identification & Similar species: A small skipper with bright red underwing which is difficult to confuse with other species on these islands.
Distribution & Flight: Local throughout both islands in hills and rough places upto 1500m or more. It flies in two broods in spring from April to June and late summer in August and September.
Habitat & Behaviour: Dry grassy flowery places with or without scrub. Flies fast and low. Frequently rests on rocks.