Narrow-winged Pug
Common NameNarrow-winged Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia nanata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)19
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown, greenish-brown
HabitatHeathland, moorland, open woodlands, coastal areas
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, including the British Isles
Host Plantsheather, bell heather
Flight PeriodApril to June (first brood), July to September (second brood)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the flowers and seeds of heather species, typically pupating in the soil. This species usually has two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its narrow forewings, the cryptic grey-brown mottling, and often a faint dark central spot. Its strong association with heather habitats is a useful identification clue.
Description
A small, slender-bodied moth with relatively narrow forewings, exhibiting a mottled pattern of grey, white, and brownish-green, providing excellent camouflage against its natural background.
