Common Checkered-Skipper

Male - August 2023

The Common Checkered-Skipper (Pyrgus communis) is a striking white and black spread-wing skipper!! These butterflies are quite a specialty and it’s always exciting to find one. The bold checkering in white and black is unmistakable, and the abdomen is almost silvery-gray

My sightings of this species have been very few and far between. Best sightings occurred near farm fields and grassy areas.

Female - September 2016

Females have a more subtle darker, gray-brown appearance and the abdomen has a different shape. The white spots are also a bit less pronounced.

Male - August 2023

Here’s a decent ventral view of a male as he nectar feeds on a white clover bloom!!

Male - September 2016

This photo was my first ever sighting. I remember hoping the butterfly would stay for just a few more seconds as it flew right into my field of view, briefly basking on the grass. :)