Alpine Grizzled Skipper

Pyrgus andromedae

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Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011



Switzerland, June 2011

This Pyrgus species is superficially very similar to all the rest but once you are familiar with it it is quite unmistakeable. Towards the base of the upperside forewing, the spots in ss. 1 and 2 are elongated and there is often a third spot above them, which gives a very characteristic look when present. The white around the edge of the upperside hindwing is like gossamer, or a diaphanous veil. From beneath, the spot and streak (exclammation mark) in s.1 is also characteristic, though these marks may be joined, as in the penultimate picture above.

The butterfly is found quite commonly in the high Alps, flying quite early in the season compared to other altitude butterflies. All the pictures I had of it were rather poor, so in June 2011 I set off one day with the express purpose of getting some better ones. This page is the result!