Geometridae

70.166 Plain Pug Eupithecia simpliciata (Haworth, 1809)

Local

Similar species: Unless worn this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for other British or Irish species. If unsure check the genitalia.

Forewing: 11 to 13mm

Habitats: Salt-marsh, tidal river-banks, estuaries, wasteground and sea-cliffs. Also inland on wasteground and other derelict land.

Habits: The moth can be found flying over its foodplants after dark, when it visits the flowers of Common Ragwort and Marram. It also comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the ripening seeds of the more prostrate plants of goosefoots and oraches. It pupates in loose soil.