Essex Skipper vs Nebria Streamside Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Essex Skipper | Nebria Streamside Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Thymelicus lineola | Nebria brevicollis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Hesperiidae | Carabidae |
| Size | 26-30 mm wingspan | 10-14 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe, western Asia (introduced to North America) | Europe, Introduced to North America and New Zealand |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Essex Skipper
A small orange-brown skipper so similar to the small skipper that it was not recognised as a separate British species until 1889. The undersides of its antenna tips are black, not orange.
Did You Know?
It was overlooked in Britain for over a century because it was confused with the nearly identical small skipper.
Nebria Streamside Beetle
A very common European ground beetle often found near streams and in damp habitats. It is active year-round including during mild winter nights.
Did You Know?
It is one of very few ground beetles that breeds in autumn and is active throughout the winter months.