Cypress Pug
Common NameCypress Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia phoeniceata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, and areas with cypress and other conifers
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, North Africa, introduced to some other regions
Host PlantsCupressus, Juniperus, Thuja
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the foliage of various conifers, particularly cypress species. They are typically green or brownish, camouflaged among the needles, and pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the characteristic mottled grey-brown cryptic pattern with wavy dark lines, and its association with cypress and other conifer trees. Distinguishing it from other similar pug moths often requires close examination of wing markings or genitalia.
Description
A small, slender-bodied moth with mottled grey-brown wings, featuring intricate dark wavy lines and a small, often indistinct, discal spot on the forewings.
