The Swarthy Skipper (Nastra lherminier) is a very small and mostly nondescript butterfly. These photos are of an individual earlier this spring in full sunlight. The tiny butterfly has some wear on it and is a bit faded. Their upperwings are a darker brown with underwing a light brown or yellow with some lighter edges and white veins. You can see it here feeding on a red clover flower, and it is even smaller! These nectar sources are common for the species as they will stay low in the grass in short or cut areas only adding to their inconspicuousness. As of today the only place we know they are found in Connecticut is at Stratford Point right at the edge of their northern range.
A number of individuals have just taken to the wing this week as the second brood emerged…stop by Stratford Point to see if you can spot any! It is as easy as can be at the moment with dozens of Swarthy Skippers in the air.
Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
