Identifying features
Wingspan 21–26 mm. The wings are dark brown on the upper side, with dark brown tufts. The white spots on the forewing are smaller, and on the hindwing they are more diffuse and grey than in Grizzled skipper. The underside of the hindwing is pale straw-coloured with black dusting and white spots, and the inner edge of the white band is even.
Similar species
The species resembles both large grizzled skipper and Grizzled skipper, but oberthürs grizzled skipper’s current distribution does not overlap with large grizzled skipper. From Grizzled skipper, it is distinguished by smaller, less distinct white spots and the even inner edge of the cross-band on the underside of the hindwing.
Distribution
The presence of Sweden is limited to southeast Scania, with a focus on the area around Tomelilla; the largest individual population is located at Hobjärsbackarna. Previous populations at Sandhammaren and Kåsebergaåsen are believed to be extinct.
Biology
The larvae primarily feed on broom. The butterfly females lay their eggs on plants growing in close proximity to bare ground. The species is likely dependent on a warm microclimate.