Juniper Pug
Common NameJuniper Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia pusillata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatConifer woodlands, heathlands, gardens, and areas with juniper
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, and introduced to North America
Host PlantsJuniperus communis, Juniperus sabina, Picea, Abies
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the berries and foliage of juniper and other conifers. It overwinters as an egg, typically laid on the host plant.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its association with juniper, its mottled grey-brown cryptic pattern, and a generally small, slender appearance typical of 'pug' moths. Careful examination of wing markings is often needed to differentiate from similar *Eupithecia* species.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey and brown wings, often featuring a small dark discal spot on the forewing. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
