Golden-rod Pug
Common NameGolden-rod Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia virgaureata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)19
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, heathland, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles
Host Plantsgoldenrod, heather
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the flowers and seeds of goldenrod and heather, pupating in the soil where they overwinter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size and cryptic grey-brown coloration, often blending with bark. Close examination of specific wing markings is often required to differentiate it from similar pug species.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey-brown wings, often featuring darker speckles and faint wavy cross-lines, providing excellent camouflage on tree bark.
