Geometridae

70.171 Ochreous Pug Eupithecia indigata (Hübner, [1813])

Common

Similar species: Due to its pale sandy brown colouring (there is a scarce darker form) with a large dash in the forewing and distinctive resting position when settled, this moth is unlikely to be mistaken for other British or Irish species unless very worn.

Forewing: 8 to 10mm

Habitats: Scot's Pine forest, pine plantations, mixed woodland with pines and gardens.

Habits: The moth flies from dusk and comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the buds and young shoots of Scots Pine and sometimes Lodgepole Pine and European Larch. In captivity it accepts Juniper and cypresses. It is also said to occasionally feed on aphids. It pupates in a flimsy cocoon amongst the needles on the tree or in the needles on the ground.

On the European mainland it also feeds on Norway Spruce.