Geometridae: Larentiinae

1851 (ABH70.161) Golden-rod Pug Eupithecia virgaureata, Doubleday, 1861

KR08577

Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Elton
Elton
 Photo © Brian Stone


General Information

This moth is very difficult to separate from similar species.

 

Pupates in loose soil.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a pupa.
Both sexes come to light.

Forewing length: 10-11mm.
Foodplant(s): ragworts (Senecio spp.), Goldenrod (Solidago virguarea), Grey Willow (Salix cinerea)
Flying: Two generations, May-June and August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Local

Habitat

Open woodland, waste ground and verges.

Regional Information

Recorded in 33 (12.2%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in July 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 22 April to 19 September

Similar Species
Ross of Mull
Ross of Mull
 Photo © Brian Stone
Satyr Pug Eupithecia satyrata
Great Staughton
Great Staughton
 Photo © Peter Bissell
White-spotted Pug Eupithecia tripunctaria

Local
Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Wrinkled
Colours:
Yellow, brown, grey, white
No. of Proleg Pairs:
2