Identifying features
Wingspan 20–24 mm. The wing colour is dark brown, and both pairs of wings have distinct white spots. It differs from the other three Norwegian Pyrgus species due to its smaller size and darker base colour.
Similar species
Distinguished from Alpine Grizzled Skipper and large grizzled skipper by the clear white spots on the hindwing; Northern grizzled skipper is larger, lighter, and primarily flies around pine voles.
Distribution
Common in low-lying areas of Eastern Norway and Southern Norway, as well as the southern and inland parts of Vestlandet.
Biology
The larvae live on strawberries (Fragaria), shrubs (Potentilla), and mallow (Malva). In Norway, the latter is not particularly suitable as a food plant. Larval development occurs between July and September, the pupa develops between interlinked leaves at the base of the food plant, and the pupa overwinters.