Foxglove Pug
Common NameFoxglove Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia pulchellata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, orange
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, heathland (where foxgloves grow)
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles
Host PlantsDigitalis purpurea
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed exclusively on the flowers and developing seeds of foxglove, often burrowing into the seed capsules. Pupation occurs in the soil, where they overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive mottled pattern, small size, and strong association with foxglove plants. A prominent dark blotch near the costa of the forewing is a key feature.
Description
A small pug moth characterized by its mottled forewings, displaying a mix of dark brown, black, and reddish-orange patches over a lighter ochreous-brown ground color. Its abdomen is pale and striped.
