Geometridae

70.186 Yarrow Pug Eupithecia millefoliata Rossler, 1866

Notable B

Similar species: Shaded Pug Eupithecia subumbrata is smaller in size (10 to 12mm), has a whiter background colour and a more pointed forewing with a small or absent central spot. Grey Pug Eupithecia subfuscata is smaller in size (10 to 12mm), has a more rounded leading edge to the forewing and the cross-lines each side of the central spot curve less sharply from the leading edge. In the case of worn specimens or if unsure of the identity check the genitalia.

Forewing: 12 to 13mm

Habitats: Coastal sand-dunes, vegetated shingle beaches, scrub grassland, open coastal wasteground and road verges.

Habits: The moth comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on the flowers and then the ripening seeds of Yarrow. It pupates in the leaf litter.