Geometridae

70.147 Slender Pug Eupithecia tenuiata (Hübner, [1813])

Common

Similar species: Maple Pug Eupithecia inturbata has a smaller less conspicuous central spot in the forewing and the dark band in the outer wing has a large pale break. Only worn specimens of Haworth's Pug Eupithecia haworthiata are likely to be mistaken for this similar sized species due to its lack of forewing spot and bright rufous colouring of the abdomen and thorax.

Forewing: 8 to 10mm

Habitats: Damp woodland, carr, scrub, fens, marshes, the margins of ponds, lakes, flooded gravel pits and ditches, dune-slacks and gardens.

Habits: The moth can sometimes be found on mature sallow trunks during the day. It comes sparingly to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds in the catkins of Goat Willow, Grey Willow, Eared Willow and probably other sallows. It either pupates in the catkins or in the leaf litter below.