Dwarf Pug
Common NameDwarf Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia exiguata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, and other areas with deciduous trees and shrubs.
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe and parts of Asia.
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, oak, willow, various deciduous trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis moth is univoltine, producing one generation per year. The larvae feed on the foliage of various deciduous trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil or leaf litter to overwinter.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other pug moths by its specific mottled grey-brown wing pattern, often with a small, indistinct discal spot and wavy cross-lines. Definitive identification may sometimes require examination of genitalia due to similarity with other *Eupithecia* species.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey, brown, and whitish wings, featuring indistinct cross-lines and a small central spot, allowing it to blend seamlessly with bark or dead leaves.
