Juniper Pug
Common NameJuniper Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia cocciferata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDry, rocky areas, garrigue, maquis, and woodlands where juniper grows.
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, parts of the Middle East (Mediterranean region).
Host PlantsJuniperus oxycedrus, Juniperus phoenicea, Juniperus communis
Flight PeriodOctober to April (often bivoltine, with generations in autumn/winter and spring).
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the foliage of juniper species. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter. Adults emerge in late autumn/winter and spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, cryptic grey-brown coloration, and strong association with juniper host plants. Look for the characteristic wavy transverse lines and a small, dark discal spot on the forewings.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey-brown wings, featuring darker transverse bands and a small discal spot, allowing it to blend seamlessly with bark or stone.
