Brown False Pug
Common NameBrown False Pug
Scientific NameGymnoscelis rufifasciata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)18.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatGardens, woodlands, heathland, scrub, hedgerows
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia
Host Plantsheather, gorse, broom, hawthorn, willow
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on a wide range of plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon on the ground or among leaf litter, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, overall mottled brown/grey appearance, and the lack of strong, distinct markings often seen in other pug moths. The antennae are simple.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown, grey, and cream forewings, often showing faint darker cross-lines and a small discal spot.
