Pinion-spotted Pug
Common NamePinion-spotted Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia insigniata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsgrey, white, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, orchards
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, apple, pear
Flight PeriodMay to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the flowers and leaves of various Rosaceae trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil to overwinter.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of a pale ground color with prominent, somewhat rectangular dark brown costal spots and a distinct dark discal spot, along with the characteristic pug moth shape.
Description
This small moth has a mottled appearance with a pale greyish-white ground color, intricate dark brown to blackish markings, and distinct cross-lines, providing excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
