Plain Pug
Common NamePlain Pug
Scientific NameEupithecia simpliciata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, open country, waste ground
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host Plantsragwort, yarrow, mugwort, dandelion, groundsel
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green or brownish with darker markings, feeding on the flowers and seeds of various herbaceous plants. They pupate in the soil over winter.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other similar pug moths by its relatively plain appearance, often with a faint pale subterminal line and a small discal spot. Requires close inspection for accurate identification.
Description
A small, slender moth with a wingspan of about 20mm, featuring mottled greyish-brown wings with subtle darker markings, typical of the 'pug' genus.
