Mottled Pug
Common NameMottled Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia exiguata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsgrey, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, and North America
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, sallow, privet, elder
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green or brownish and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil over winter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown forewings, often with a pale subterminal line and a small, dark discal spot. The hindwings are usually paler than the forewings.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled greyish-brown forewings featuring indistinct darker bands and a small, dark discal spot, providing excellent camouflage against bark.
