This species has a wingspan of 26-28 mm and, typically of its genus, can be very difficult to identify in the field. It is sometimes considered a subspecies of the Carline Skipper (P.carlinae) as the two are known to interbreed where their ranges overlap in the Alps but can usually be recognised by the prominent squarish, rather than c-shaped, white spot near the costa of the forewing and the usually deeper red-brown underwings. The Cinquefoil Skipper flies in July and August.

The larval food plant is Spring Cinquefoil.

External links

• Cinquefoil Skipper at guypadfield.com
• Fauna Europaea

References

• Database entry includes justification for why this species is vulnerable.
• Whalley, Paul - Mitchell Beazley Guide to Butterflies (1981, reprinted 1992) ISBN 0-85533-348-0