Geometridae

70.176 Edinburgh Pug Eupithecia intricata intricata (Zetterstedt, 1839)

Common

Mere's Pug Eupithecia intricata hibernica Mere, 1964

Burren, Ireland

Similar species: In good condition this is a distinctive moth (note the darker segments on the abdomen). If worn or unsure check the genitalia.

Forewing: 12 to 13mm

Habitats: Pine woodland with a juniper understory, moorland, conifer plantations, parkland and gardens.

Habits: Both subspecies of this moth fly from dusk and come to light.

Foodplant: The Edinburgh Pug larva feeds on Cypresses (Cupressus and Chaemaecyparis), garden Junipers and Common Juniper. Mere's Pug feeds on prostrate Common Juniper on limestone pavement. Both subspecies pupate in a cocoon spun amongst the needles on the foodplant.