1811       Eupithecia tenuiata (Hübner, 1813)  SLENDER PUG

A species occurring throughout Britain, the larva feeding on sallow catkins (Salix spp.). In Dorset, the moth is found wherever grey willow (Salx cinerea) grows in hedgerow, woodland edge, undercliff or at water edge habitats; it is usually at low density. This species is similar to Maple Pug₁₈₁₂. Diagnostics include: small; a small but conspicuous discal spot; a full and rounded forewing.

1812       Eupithecia inturbata (Hübner, 1817)  MAPLE PUG

A species found in England and Wales, the larva feeding on the flowers of field maple (Acer campestris). In Dorset, the moth is found where field maple is plentiful, usually in old woods and hedges on chalky soils. The following record indicates that colonies can attain quite a size: Blashenwell Farm, many larvae beaten from old maple tree flowers on 23 May 1892, three hundred and eighty-two adults emerged between 2 July 1892 and 19 July 1892 (Reverend E Bankes). Diagnostics include: small; a light ground colour; an acute apex.

1813       Eupithecia haworthiata (Doubleday, 1856)  HAWORTH'S PUG

A species found in England and Wales, the larva feeding on the flower buds of traveller’s joy (Clematis vitalba). In Dorset, the moth is common where traveller’s joy grows in woods, plantations and hedges, mostly on soils with high calcium content. This species is similar to Valerian Pug₁₈₂₁ and Lead-coloured Pug₁₈₁₄. Diagnostics include: small; a sharply-angled median line touching the small discal spot; an overall brownish ground colour; several brick-red abdominal segments.

1814       Eupithecia plumbeolata (Haworth, 1809)  LEAD-COLOURED PUG     Notable/Nb

A local species in England and Wales, the larva feeding on the flowers of common cow-wheat (Melampyrum pratense). In Dorset, the moth is rare. So far, it has only been found in the north and north-east of the county within old deciduous woodland, specifically in oak woods where the foodplant carpets rides, such as in Piddles Wood, Chetterwood, Holt Wood, and Boys Wood. Other sites where the foodplant grows include Clifton Wood and Bere Wood. It is recommended that this species be included in habitat management plans for old oak and birch woodland sites that contain cow-wheat. This species is similar to Haworth’s Pug₁₈₁₃ and Valerian Pug₁₈₂₁. Diagnostics include: small; an overall greyish ground colour; no well-marked discal spot or tornal spots; proximity of host foodplant.

1815       Eupithecia abietaria (Goeze, 1781)  CLOAKED PUG

A species that was formerly resident in Britain, the larva feeding internally on spruce (Picea spp.) cones. This huge Pug has undergone a dramatic decline in Britain, possibly due to the harvesting of spruce as a crop before maturation, and the consequent lack of mature cone-bearing trees. In Dorset, spruce tends to be harvested in this way, and the tree has never been native. The sole historical colony on record was from Purbeck at the start of the twentieth century: Norden Copse, male flushed from fir on 19 July 1902, female on 23 July 1902 (Reverend E Bankes), Norden Plantation, female flushed from fir on 2 August 1902 (F Hanbury), in flight at 8:40pm on 17 July 1905, two males flushed from fir on 18 July 1905, two males in flight at 8:45pm and 9:15pm, respectively on 20 July 1905, male in flight at dusk on 31 July 1905, male at rest on rush stem at dusk on 31 July 1905, male beaten from scotch fir on 25 July 1906, and Scotland, disturbed on 15 July 1905 (Reverend E Bankes). More recently, moth research in a wood full of Norway spruce in the west of the county, has revealed a colony: Chedington Wood, at MV light on 14 Jul 2007 and two on 1 July 2008 (P Davey et al). It is recommended that groups or groves of mature cone-bearing Norway Spruce be retained to support the Cloaked Pug colony in Chedington Wood.

Elsewhere, the following records are of immigrants: Puddletown, at MV light on 4 July 2003 (H Wood Homer), Higher Hyde, two at MV light on 7 July 2001 (Mark Forster et al).

1816       Eupithecia linariata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]  TOADFLAX PUG

A species found across England and Wales, but local in Scotland, the larva feeding on the flowers and seed capsules of common toadflax (Linaria vulgaris). In Dorset, the moth is local and at low density, occurring most frequently on Portland, and elsewhere scattered on chalky soil in ‘non-native’ and transient habitats, such as field edges, dry verges, embankments and disturbed ground. The flight period covers three months on average, and, given the relatively prolonged flowering period of the host foodplant between July and October, it is likely that many of the moths recorded in the late summer are second brood individuals. The species is bivoltine in the southern part of its range on the Continent. Collecting bunches of toadflax seedheads in the autumn have yielded adults the following July. This species is similar to Foxglove Pug₁₈₁₇. Diagnostics include: the smaller of the two species; outer edge of the median band less indented close to the costal edge; respective host foodplants, foxglove and common toadflax (Linaria vulgaris), tend to occupy sandy and chalky soils, respectively.

1817       Eupithecia pulchellata (Stephens, 1831)  FOXGLOVE PUG

A species with a general distribution across Britain, the larva feeding on the stamens of the flowers of foxglove (Digitalis purpurea). In Dorset, the moth is common and can be abundant where foxglove grows in large numbers in cleared woodland, old hedgebanks, sheltered grassland, especially on well-drained acid soils. The national norm is for a single brood in May and June, but in Dorset adults are observed on many occasions in July and well into August, for example at Arne,  far from Toadflax Pug₁₈₁₆ territory. Abroad, the Foxglove Pug is univoltine, as in the UK, but subspecies intermedia, a whiter and more variegated form, is on the wing between late May and late July. Further research is needed to ascertain whether late-date moths turn out to be this sub-species.

1818       Eupithecia irriguata (Hübner, 1813)  MARBLED PUG     Notable/Nb

A local species restricted to southern England, the larva feeding on oak (Quercus spp.). In Dorset, the moth is very local and tends to colonise old oak woods; current sites include: Powerstock Common, Deadmoor Common, Melcombe Park, Oakers Wood, Arne Wood, and historical sites include Wootton Wood and Chamberlaynes. Reduction in old oak and birch woodland to make way for conifer plantation has undoubtedly reduced the number of colonies across the county. Managing a varied age structure of oak could be beneficial to maintaining this species at the above oak woodland sites. Singletons trapped at West Bexington and St Ives well away from potential core habitat, suggest occasional dispersal.

The following account is of a moth flying during the day at Corfe Castle on 24 April 1893: “Heat still intense. Max. shade temperature 67°F. Hurrah for Purbeck! While walking through our Corfe River copse this evening I noticed a small Geometer flying about under an oak tree. It presently settled on a leaf of sallow, and I stood lost in admiration for it proved to be a magnificent specimen of E.irriguata which is quite new to the Purbeck list though I have always rather expected that it might occur here. I gazed at it for some time wondering how in the world I could catch it as it was sitting awkwardly among the leaves and I was net-less, worse luck! Finally I made an attempt to slip a box over it, but it was too wide-awake, and although I got it between my closed hands it escaped and flew off into the brushwood! ‘Veni, Vidi’ but I cannot truthfully add ‘Vici’” (Reverend E Bankes).

1819       Eupithecia exiguata (Hübner, 1813)  MOTTLED PUG

A species found throughout England and Wales, but local in Scotland, the larva feeding on hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), blackthorn (Prunus spp.) and dogwood (Cornus sanguinea). In Dorset, the moth is moderately common on chalky soil, but it is also frequent in the blackthorn thickets at West Bexington and at Alner’s Gorse, and amongst mature hawthorn at Merley and at Gaunts Common.

1820       Eupithecia insigniata (Hübner, 1790)  PINION-SPOTTED PUG     Notable/Nb

A local species confined to southern England, the larva feeding on hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) and apple (Malus spp.). In Dorset, this handsome moth is very elusive and seldom recorded. It seems to favour mature hawthorn on chalky soils, and all post-1940 records, bar one, originate from chalky soils of the Stour valley. The Bourton locality is close to an old clay quarry covered in mature hawthorn. The Shapwick records refer to moths trapped within the valley to the south of Badbury Rings, close to an old orchard where a small number of apple trees grow, and with some broad hedgerows containing hawthorn in the surrounding open countryside. Ashington also has relatively large amounts of mature hawthorn. West Blagdon is close to the Martin Down nature reserve where there is an abundance of mature hawthorn scrub within large tracts of unimproved grassland. Mature hawthorn in quantity has become scarce as unimproved grassland on chalky soil has been cleared of scrub, improved and subjected to grazing. It is recommended that this species be included in management plans for unimproved grassland sites on chalky soil that contain scrub. All county records follow: Chamberlaynes, three in 1937 (H Andrewes), Blandford, at light on 1 June 1947 (J Howell), Bourton, at MV on 18 May 1998 (J Burge), Shapwick, at MV on 8 May 2000, 9 May 2000, 26 May 2003, 26 and 27 May 2007 (P Davey), Ashington, at MV on 30 June 1986 (J Fradgley), West Blagdon, 26 May 2006 (D Green).

1821       Eupithecia valerianata (Hübner, 1813)  VALERIAN PUG     Notable/Nb

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers and ripening seed capsules of common valerian (Valeriana officinalis). In Dorset, the moth is very local, and colonises three different habitat types: woodland rides on chalky soil, reed-bed and rocky coast. It is on the wing between mid-May and late June.

Inland: Larvae have been found feeding on common valerian growing along woodland rides on chalky soil in the north-east of the county, for example, Stubhampton Bottom hosts a colony; the moth has been recorded from reed-bed habitat containing common valerian on the River Frome at Wareham.

Coast: Common valerian is absent from the coastal belt and yet the moth is common very locally in the quarries and undercliffs that characterise Portland and Purbeck. In these localities red valerian (Valeriana rubrum) hosts the moth. Searching valerian flowers and seeds from mid-July for the fully exposed larvae may well yield more localities for this potentially under-recorded species.

It is recommended that this species be included in management plans for wetland sites containing common valerian, and for coastal sites that contain red valerian. This species is similar to Haworth’s Pug₁₈₁₃ and Lead-coloured Pug₁₈₁₄. Diagnostics include: a larger pale tornal spot on a more elongated forewing and on the hindwing; less grey in the ground colour; proximity of valerian plants.

1823       Eupithecia venosata (Fabricius, 1787)  NETTED PUG

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on the ripening seed capsules of bladder campion (Silene vulgaris) and sea campion (Silene uniflora). This highly distinctive Pug is very local in Dorset, and is yet another species that has probably declined as a result of loss of unimproved grassland on chalky soils. It colonises the following habitat types:

Inland: Rare on chalky soil where bladder campion grows, often on roadside verges, although this plant rarely occurs in quantity, and changes in farming methods in the last century will undoubtedly have reduced populations overall.

Coast: The second habitat is coastal where sea campion grows on cliffs and within the tracts of unimproved dry grassland on Portland and on Purbeck (noted only from St Alban’s Head and from Durlston to date).

It is recommended that County Council extend their ‘verges of interest’ initiative to include roadside verges that support bladder campion, and suspend mowing these verges until the larval stage has been completed, usually by the end of August. It is also recommended that this species be included as a target rehabilitation species within unimproved grassland habitat management plans. See also Marble Coronet₂₁₇₁.

1824       Eupithecia centaureata (Herrich-Schäffer, 1848)  PAUPER PUG     RDB3

A rare species recorded from Monmouthshire, Gloucestershire, Hampshire and Norfolk, the larva feeding on the flowers of small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata), and at the present time immigration from the Continent is believed to be boosting numbers across south-east England and East Anglia. In Dorset, small-leaved lime, from being one of the commonest trees at the time of the wildwood many hundreds of years ago, has become consigned mainly to old woods and hedges in the north-east of the county where it is rare. A single moth was found in the heart of an old deciduous wood containing oak, maple, birch and small-leaved lime: Cranborne Copse, at MV light on 16 June 2003 (P Davey). It was trapped together with two Lime Hawks at the foot of a mighty cathedral-like small-leaved lime tree. Maintaining numbers of mature small-leaved lime trees at Edmonsham should safeguard the resident colony of Pauper Pug at the site. A second county record occurred four years later coincident with a warm north-easterly airflow from northern Europe: Puddletown, at MV light on 8 June 2007 (H Wood Homer).

1825       Eupithecia centaureata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]  LIME-SPECK PUG

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of many plants including yarrow (Achillea millefolium), mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), ragwort (Senecio spp.), knapweed (Centaurea spp.), burnet saxifrage (Pimpinella saxifraga) and traveller’s joy (Clematis vitalba). In Dorset, this singular moth is common along the coast where yarrow abounds, and rarest on open heathland and in conifer plantation. Elsewhere, the moth is frequent on unimproved grassland along the Purbeck Ridge and on the north Dorset downs where larvae have been found on burnet saxifrage. The peak of the second brood is on average, three times larger than that of the first.

1826       Eupithecia trisignaria (Herrich-Schäffer, 1848)  TRIPLE-SPOTTED PUG

A local species confined to southern and eastern Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers and ripening seed capsules of wild angelica (Angelica sylvestris) and hogweed (Heracleum sphondylium). In Dorset, the moth is rare. In 1953, searches were undertaken for this species amongst wild angelica in many localities from Lydlinch in the west, to Warmwell Heath in the south, to West Moors in the east. Pug caterpillars were found, but all of them turned out to be the White-spotted Pug₁₈₃₅, although one larva was located on wild angelica the following year. Forty years on, larvae have been discovered on wild angelica in dense woodland on the northern slopes of chalk downland. More recently, larvae were discovered once more on wild angelica growing along a woodland ride on a north-facing scarp in the far west of the county. Larvae are best sought by closely inspecting the seed-heads atop host foodplants; the slender caterpillars pose in typical geometer fashion, jutting out cryptically within the fabric of the old flower head; plump Pug larvae not in cryptic pose are most likely to be White-spotted Pug₁₈₃₅. The few records indicate that the moth prefers wild angelica in shaded, even wooded habitat rather than in open situations: Cranborne-Damerham area, larva September 1954 emerged 8 July 1955 (Dr H King), Batcombe, larva on wild angelica seeds 13 September 1993 (Dr P Sterling), five larvae on wild angelica seeds 13 September 2003 (P Davey), Chedington Wood, seven larvae on wild angelica seeds 4 September 2008 (B Henwood et al). Wild angelica is often an important nectar source for invertebrates, so habitat management plans might give consideration to sowing damp woodland rides with wild angelica seed as part of a neutral grassland seed mix to benefit this species and increase the diversity of the field layer.

1827       Eupithecia intricata (Zetterstedt, 1839)  FREYER'S PUG  

A species limited to southern England, the larva feeding on cypress (Cupressaceae spp.). In Dorset, this rather large and well-marked Pug is well established in most areas of human habitation where it feeds on monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) and lawson’s cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsonii) planted as hedges. Lawson’s cypress is occasionally block planted as a forestry crop, and two adults trapped in Wareham Forest indicate colonisation well away from suburbia.

1828       Eupithecia satyrata (Hübner, 1813)  SATYR PUG

A local species restricted to southern and eastern England, the larva feeding on the flowers of many plants including knapweed (Centaurea spp.), wild thyme (Thymus polytrichus) and meadow sweet (Filipendula ulmaria). In Dorset, this moth is very local, but sometimes common where it occurs, being easily disturbed by day from its resting-place among open scrub. The stronghold is in north-east Dorset on unimproved grassland on chalky soil, but a single record in central Dorset hints that the species is more widespread in this habitat than records suggest. The species has also been found on unimproved neutral grassland in the Blackmore Vale on ill-drained clay soil. It is likely that overall populations of the moth have reduced in response to the reduction in unimproved grassland habitat. Larvae have been found on common valerian (Valeriana officinalis), but the majority of observations come from habitats where knapweed is abundant. There are no records from the coastal belt. This species is similar to Freyer’s Pug₁₈₂₇. Diagnostics include: a more oblique discal spot; paler ground colour; less chequered fringe; paler second abdominal segment.

1830       Eupithecia absinthiata (Clerck, 1759)  WORMWOOD PUG

A common species in Britain, the polyphagous larva feeding on the flowers of many plants including yarrow (Achillea millefolium), mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), ragwort (Senecio spp.), goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), wormwood (Artemisea absinthium) and goosefoot (Chenopodium spp.). In Dorset, the moth is widely distributed and at low density. It is commonest along the coast where yarrow and wormwood abounds, and rare on open heathland and in woodland. Elsewhere, the moth is frequent on unimproved grassland along the Purbeck Ridge and on the north Dorset downs where larvae have been found on ragwort. The national norm is a single brood in June and July. In Dorset a small number of May individuals have been noted at times of immigration, and these are likely to have originated from the Continent where a partial first generation is noted in some years, a few examples follow: West Bexington, 17 May 1997 (R Eden, Puddletown, 8 May 2000 (H Wood Homer), Wareham, 8 May 2008 (Mrs B Young), Gaunts Common, 19 May 1992 (P Davey).

1831       Eupithecia goossensiata (Mabille, 1869)  LING PUG

A species found throughout Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of heather (Erica spp.). There is some debate as to whether the Ling Pug is a distinct species, or just a smaller heathland race of the Wormwood Pug₁₈₃₀. It is treated as a separate species in this account as it is given as a distinct species in the British list. In Dorset, the moth is confined to sandy soil where it is single-brooded and locally common amongst heather (Calluna vulgaris) and heath (Erica spp.).

1832       Eupithecia assimilata (Doubleday, 1856)  CURRANT PUG

A generally distributed species in Britain, the larva feeding on the red currant (Ribes rubrum), black currant (Ribes nigrum) and hop (Humulus lupulus). In Dorset, the moth appears to be restricted to currant bushes in allotments, nurseries and gardens where it occurs at low density, and to river valleys containing hop. There are no records from damp woodland containing red currant, a similar situation to that of the Spinach₁₇₅₇. This species is similar to the Wormwood Pug₁₈₃₀. Diagnostics include: more prominent white tornal spot; a darker ‘cat’s-pupil’ discal spot; shorter but broader forewings; more angled post-median line as it curves round discal spot.

1833       Eupithecia expallidata (Doubleday, 1856)  BLEACHED PUG     Notable/Nb

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea). In Dorset, the foodplant is local and decreasing in woods and on heaths on sandy soil and on greensand. There was evidently a relatively strong colony amongst golden-rod growing in Bere Wood historically as evidenced by the late nineteenth and early twentieth century records: Bere Wood, a fair number of larvae from flowers and seed-heads of golden-rod “larvae seem very local - sweeping was impossible due to rabbits having eaten down the golden-rod” (Reverend E Bankes), adults emerged between 11 July 1887 and25 August 1887 (Reverend E Bankes, O Pickard-Cambridge), larvae not uncommon in a single spot recently cleared of underwood where golden-rod was abundant - all were obtained by searching on 2 and 10 October 1908, sweeping yielded none, the margins of the clearing where golden-rod was common was unproductive – twenty-seven emerged between 25 July 1909 and 28 August 1909 and a further twenty-two emerged between 12 July 1910 and 7 August 1910 (Reverend E Bankes). A second ecotype for goldenrod is on the limestone cliffs and quarries on Portland, although stocks of the plant have decreased in this open habitat in recent years, and there are no recent records. East Weare, three at honeycomb and light on 11 July 1936 (H Andrewes, A Russell, C de Worms), two at light and nectaring on valerian on 25 July 1936 (H Andrewes), Scar Bank, at light on 10 August 1937 (A Russell), see photo. Although this species has not been seen for many years, the same recommendations as stated for Golden-rod Pug₁₈₅₁ apply: maintain coppicing levels in old woodland sites to promote viable stocks of golden-rod in the cleared areas. This species is similar to the Wormwood Pug₁₈₃₀. Diagnostics include: a paler more ochreous-grey ground colour (not reddish-brown); a series of distinct black dots where the veins intersect with the post-median line; a larger, more distinctly black and elongate discal spot.

1834       Eupithecia vulgata (Haworth, 1809)  COMMON PUG

A common species across Britain, but local in northern Scotland, the polyphagous larva feeding on many plants including sallow (Salix spp.), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), ragwort (Senecio spp.) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna). In Dorset, the moth is widespread and common across all habitats and one of the most frequent pugs at the light trap. The moth is double-brooded with a dominant brood in May and June, followed by a smaller second generation from mid-July to mid-August, and exceptionally, third-brood individuals in mid-September. This moth is similar to a number of other Pug species. Diagnostics include: a twice sharp-angled post-median line where it approaches the costal edge of the forewing; distinctly chequered fringe; darker costal region of the forewing contrasting with a paler central portion; a wavy white sub-terminal line.

1835       Eupithecia tripunctaria (Herrich-Schäffer, 1852)  WHITE-SPOTTED PUG

Found throughout Britain, but local in northern Scotland, the larva feeding on the flowers and ripening seed capsules of wild angelica (Angelica sylvestris), goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), cow parsley (Anthriscus sylvestris), wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa), and the flowers of elder (Sambucus nigra). In Dorset, the moth is locally widespread and at low density in the adult stage, but larvae have been reported as common, albeit heavily parasitised, on wild angelica from a number of localities. The larva has also been found on elder. This species is rather similar to the Grey Pug₁₈₃₇, Golden-rod Pug₁₈₅₁ and Larch Pug₁₈₅₆. Diagnostics include: a white spot on the notum (Larch Pug has white crest on the thorax); white tornal spots on forewing and hindwing; weak darkish costal spots.

1837       Eupithecia subfuscata (Haworth, 1809)  GREY PUG

Common across much of Britain, apart from northern Scotland, the larva feeding on the flowers and leaves of a wide range of plants. In Dorset, the moth occurs in most deciduous habitats and it is often common. Similar species is: Larch Pug₁₈₅₆. Diagnostics include: smaller discal spot; less sharply angled post-median line where it curves around the discal spot.

1838       Eupithecia icterata subfulvata (Villers, 1789)  TAWNY-SPECKLED PUG

A species with a general distribution in Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers and leaves of yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and sneezewort (Achillea ptarmica). In Dorset, the moth is at low density and commonest on unimproved coastal grassland where yarrow is abundant. Inland, the moth is locally frequent on unimproved grassland, and at low density in transient habitats, such as roadside verges, lawns and on waste ground. There is no evidence that the Tawny-speckled Pug colonises sneezewort-rich habitat on ill-drained clay soils, so, trapping at Rooksmoor, Pamphill and Holt Lodge Farm have failed to yield any moths.

The following records refer to sub-species cognata, where the reddish suffusion of the forewing found in sub-species subfulvata is suppressed. Sub-species cognata is dominant in parts of Scotland and Ireland, and forms a variable percentage of the population in other northern and western regions of Britain but remains largely absent further south and east: Scar Bank, at light on 23 July 1932, 14 August 1936, 17. August 1946, 20 July 1948 (A Russell).

The following light trap records from localities on or close to the coast refer either early emergences or potential immigrants. The moth is on the wing as early as the end of May in the southern part of its European range: West Bexington, on 7 June 1997, 28 and 31 May 2006, 1 June 2006 (R Eden), Woolgarston, three between 25 May 1992 and 10 June 1992 (R Burt), Swanage, on 6 June 1995, 19 May 2000, 3 and 4 June 2004, 23 May 2007 (R Cox), Hengistbury Head, 23 May 2004 (M Jeffes).

1839       Eupithecia succenturiata (Linnaeus, 1758)  BORDERED PUG

A species occurring across England and Wales, but very local in Scotland, the larva feeding on the flowers of many plants including mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). In Dorset, the moth is at very low density, and at most noted only a handful of times in a single year from any one locality. This may be because mugwort is a fairly local and thinly spread plant, growing in roadside verges, urban wasteland and tips, but rarely in permanent, native habitats. The moth is rather similar to the Shaded Pug₁₈₄₀: diagnostics include: ‘lighthouse’ effect of white colouration on thorax and central portion of forewing; dark abdomen.

1840       Eupithecia subumbrata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]  SHADED PUG

A species found throughout southern and eastern England, but local elsewhere, the larva feeding on many plants including hawk’s-beard (Crepis spp.), field scabious (Knautia arvensis), small scabious (Scabiosa columbaria), devil’s-bit scabious (Succisa pratensis) and ragwort (Senecio spp.). In Dorset, the moth is at locally common on unimproved grassland on chalky soil both on the coast and inland. Elsewhere, it is found sparingly on unimproved acid grassland, for example Hengistbury Head, where smooth hawk’s-beard (Crepis capillaris) and ragwort proliferate.

1842       Eupithecia simpliciata (Haworth, 1809)  PLAIN PUG

A frequent species across England, but very local in Wales, the larva feeding on the ripening seeds of goosefoot (Chenopodium spp.) and orache (Atriplex spp.). In Dorset, the moth is at low density and occurs most often in the vicinity of pebble beaches or muddy shores where orache and sea purslane (Atriplex portulacoides) grow, notably the Fleet, Portland Harbour and Poole Harbour. The species also occurs very locally inland in high-nutrient arable situations, possibly feeding on many-seeded goosefoot (Chenopdium polyspermum), fat hen (Chenopodium album) or spear-leaved orache (Atriplex prostrata). Wide wings plus a smooth, pale ochreous colouration are diagnostic.

1843       Eupithecia distinctaria (Herrich-Schäffer, 1848)  THYME PUG     Notable/Nb

A very local species restricted to the southern and western coasts in Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of wild thyme (Thymus polytrichus). In Dorset, the moth is very local, at low density and restricted to Portland, Durlston and Ballard Down. Old records indicate that the species occupied the same localities in areas of unimproved dry short-turf grassland on chalky soil. The following technique was evidently productive in days gone by, and may be the best way to yield additional localities for this potentially under-recorded Pug: Durlston, fifty adult moths beaten from the bramble-breaks in fields beyond lighthouse on 23 June 1884 (Reverend E Bankes). It is recommended that this species be included in habitat management plans for SSSIs that comprise unimproved grassland on Purbeck and on Portland, and to set grazing levels that promote thyme-rich grassland. Diagnostics include: conspicuous costal spots; large ‘cat’s-eye pupil’ discal spot; pointed apex; thyme-rich habitat.

1844       Eupithecia indigata (Hübner, 1813)  OCHREOUS PUG

A general distributed species in Britain, the larva feeding on the buds and fresh shoots of scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). In Dorset, the moth is locally common on sandy soil amongst scots pine woods. Scots pine either block-planted or in scattered communities away from heathland also harbours the species, for example at Stubhampton Bottom and at Fontmell Down in north Dorset. Diagnostics include: pointed apex; light ochreous grey forewing; conspicuous ovate discal spot.

1845       Eupithecia pimpinellata (Hübner, 1813)  PIMPINEL PUG

A local species in England, the larva feeding on the ripening seed capsules of burnet-saxifrage (Pimpinella saxifraga). In Dorset, the moth is very local and at low density being found in three unimproved grassland localities. These are on Portland and on Purbeck and on the Cranborne Chase. Old records indicate that the moth was more widespread in the past, presumably due to the far larger areas of dry unimproved grassland upon which burnet saxifrage grows. Diagnostics include: ash-grey ground colour, notum and head; elongated wings. It is recommended that this species be included in management plans for unimproved grassland sites on chalk soils in relation to maintain viable stocks of burnet-saxifrage.

1846       Eupithecia nanata (Hübner, 1813)  NARROW-WINGED PUG

A species occurring on heaths and moorland throughout Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of heather (Erica spp.). In Dorset, the moth is abundant on sandy soil where heather (Calluna vulgaris) and heath (Erica spp.) abound. The moth is also encountered occasionally on unimproved dry grassland inland and on the coastal belt well away from heathland where ericaceous plants are quite absent, for example between 1991 and 2004, there were twenty separate occasions when the moth was trapped at West Bexington. Dispersal from sandy soils is likely although numbers are at times amazingly high: Badbury Rings, thirty at MV light on 7 July 2002 (P Davey). The national norm is a partial double brood, but in Dorset the moth is double brooded and the peak of the second brood is on average, twice as large as that of the first.

1848       Eupithecia innotata (Hufnagel, 1767)  ANGLE-BARRED PUG

A local species, the larva feeding on ash (Fraxinus excelsior) in mainland Britain, and on sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) along south-east and eastern coasts of England. The species has also been found on tamarisk (Tamarix gallica) in neighbouring Hampshire (Goater, Norris, 2001). Abroad, the species is polyphagous, with blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) and dog-rose (Rosa canina) mentioned as foodplants. In Dorset, this distinctive elongated-winged moth is rare, and the sporadic nature of the few records we have, makes it difficult to assign a resident status to the species, particularly as the majority of the records are from the coastal belt where dispersal is suspected. The few examples found inland and not linked to immigration originate from the central chalk downs of Dorset: Chilfrome, on 19 July 2003 (S Philp), Puddletown, 19 June 2002 (H Wood Homer), Iwerne Minster, on 18 June 1967 (H Moore), Hambledon Hill, 18 July 1989 (Miss M Brooks).

The following light trap records occurred in mainly coastal localities in easterly airflows, hinting at medium range dispersal from colonies in south-east coastal counties or displacement from the coasts of France or Belgium - see wind rose opposite: West Bexington, 20 May 1998, 30 July 2002, 17 August 2002, 9 and 10 July 2003, 6 August 2003, 4 June 2004, 11 and 14 July 2005, 3 July 2006 (R Eden), Weymouth, on 31 May 1997, 2 July 2006 (Dr P Sterling), Portland, on 17 August 1996 (M Cade), Grove, on 8 August 1998 (D Walbridge), Gaunts Common, on 16 May 1992 (P Davey), Scar Bank, on 9 August 1933, 30 August 1948 (A Russell).

1851       Eupithecia virgaureata (Doubleday, 1861) GOLDEN-ROD PUG

A local species that is most frequently encountered in western Britain, the larva feeding on the flowers of golden-rod (Solidago vigaurea) and ragwort (Senecio jacobaea). There are three site records from Dorset. The following moths appeared at light traps during intense immigrant activity and are thought to have haled from the Continent: West Bexington, on 4 August 2003 (R Eden), Warre Wood, on 10 June 2004 (Dr P Sterling). The third site record was of larvae found in coppiced oak and birch woodland: PiddlesWood, two larvae on golden-rod flowers 19 September 2004, single adult emerged 25 April 2005 (Dr P Sterling). It is recommended that this species be included in habitat management plans for this old woodland site and that coppicing levels are maintained to promote viable stocks of golden-rod in cleared areas.

1852       Eupithecia abbreviata (Stephens, 1831)  BRINDLED PUG

A common species in Britain, the larva feeding on oak (Quercus spp.). In Dorset, the moth is common wherever oak grows, particularly so in old woods. The species is notably frequent in districts where mature hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) occurs such as at Gaunts Common and at Merley, and this may well be an alternative foodplant for the species as it is on the Continent. The Brindled Pug is one of the earliest ‘brown’ Pugs to be on the wing, and, apart from the Oak-tree Pug₁₈₅₃, which is smaller, is unlikely to be confused with any other species.

1853       Eupithecia dodoneata (Guenée, 1857)  OAK-TREE PUG

Local in England and Wales, the larva feeding on the calyx of hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) hips, and oak (Quercus spp.). In Dorset, the moth is common where hawthorn abounds and is frequent in oak woods. The national norm is a single brood in May and early June, but in Dorset the first brood is on the wing from mid-April until the end of May. A partial second generation occurs in mid-summer, with regular records from Puddletown, Merley and Trigon in recent years. The moth is similar to the Brindled Pug₁₈₅₂. Diagnostics include: smaller; less pointed apex; ground colour whitish-grey (not brownish-grey); longer dark dashes where veins intersect with post median band.

1854       Eupithecia pusillata [Denis & Schiffermüller 1775]  JUNIPER PUG

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on the needles and flowers of juniper (Juniperus spp.). In Dorset, the moth is likely to be extinct. Juniper was once scattered across the county on most soil types, but agriculture and forestry have virtually eradicated the plant. All that remains is several ancient bushes on Ackling Dyke in the far north-east of the county: Wych Heath, four adults beaten from juniper on 20 August 1889, two adults beaten from juniper on 23 August 1889, two larvae and two adults from juniper on 15 April 1890, larvae from juniper on 12 May 1890, two adults from 17 September 1894 (Reverend E Bankes et al), Bushey, two larvae on 11 May 1891 (Reverend E Bankes), Lytchett, Lytchett Heath House grounds, larva on juniper on 27 May 1907 (Reverend E Bankes), Stalbridge, at light on 26 July 1936 (A Russell), Iwerne Minster, at MV light on 17 July 1964 (H Moore).

1855       Eupithecia phoeniceata (Rambur, 1834)  CYPRESS PUG

First recorded in Cornwall in 1959, the Channel Isles the following year and now widespread in southern Britain, the larva feeding on monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and leyland cypress (Cupressus leylandii). The first Cypress Pug in Dorset was found at Swanage by John Langmaid and R Hayward on 23 September 1961. The species was not seen again until 1975 when a colony was noted at Furzebrook. Only from 1982 did the moth begin to appear in other localities, but always close to the coast. At the present time the moth remains restricted to coastal districts where it is widespread but at low density. Occasional singletons turn up elsewhere, but as yet there is no indication that the species has managed to make inroads into the heart of the county, unlike two other cypress-feeding colonists, namely, the Cypress Carpet_1771.1 and the Blair’s Shoulder-knot₂₂₄₀. The national norm is for a single brood in August and September, and this is the case in Dorset, but individuals noted in June and July, and again in October and November, suggest an occasional partial bivoltine cycle too.

1855.1   Eupithecia ultimaria (Boisduval, 1840) CHANNEL ISLANDS PUG

First recorded as breeding in Guernsey in 1986, and following the capture of a single individual at a light trap in Hertfordshire in 1989, a series of moths were observed between 1990 and 1995 along the West Sussex and Hampshire coast. In 1995 and 1996, larvae were found between Hayling Island and Brighton on tamarisk (Tamarix gallica). The moth is mainly single brooded, flying in June and July, with the occasional second brood specimen noted during the autumn; the caterpillar may be beaten from the host foodplant during the first half of August. There are just six records from Dorset. Of these, four are from West Bexington, the first, a very large specimen about the size of a Grey Pug₁₈₃₇, was recorded during Atlantic south-westerlies suggesting perhaps colonisation of tamarisk on Chesil Beach; there have been three more records subsequently: West Bexington, on 27 July 2003, 24 June 2008, 6 and 8 August 2008 (R Eden). The other two examples were seen on dates that coincided with airflows from western France, so are probably immigrants: Wyke Regis, on 5 September 2003 (D Foot), Durlston, 9 October 2006 (P Davey).

1856       Eupithecia lariciata (Freyer, 1842)  LARCH PUG

A widespread species in Britain, the larva feeding on larch (Larix spp.). In Dorset, the moth is present in larch plantation, parkland and occasionally in woods where old larch trees have escaped felling. This species can be confused with the Grey Pug₁₈₃₇, but, the proximity of larch trees plus a white crest on the thorax of the Larch Pug give clues to identification. The national norm is a single brood in May and June but in Dorset a bivoltine cycle is also evident with the peaks in early May and early July.

1857       Eupithecia tantillaria (Boisduval, 1840)  DWARF PUG

A local species in Britain, the larva feeding internally on norway spruce (Picea abies), douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla). In Dorset, the moth is often common in fir plantations where it can readily be flushed out of the lower ‘needle-rich’ branches during the day.

1858       Chloroclystis v-ata (Haworth, 1809)  V-PUG

Widespread in England, but local in southern Scotland, the poyphagous larva feeding on the flowers of many plants including dog-rose (Rosa canina), hemp agrimony (Eupatorium cannabinum), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), bramble (Rubus fruticosus), mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), ragwort (Senecio spp.), and goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea). In Dorset, the moth is widespread and most common on unimproved grassland on chalky soils where dog-rose abounds. It is largely absent from open heathland. The peak of the second brood is on average, almost twice as large as that of the first.

1859       Pasiphila chloerata (Mabille, 1870)  SLOE PUG

This species was unknown until larvae were discovered in Surrey in 1971. It is now known to be widespread across southern Britain but more local further north, the larva rapidly feeding up on the flowers of blackthorn (Prunus spinosa). In Dorset, the moth is likely to be under-recorded. Blackthorn is a common shrub across the county, and searches for larvae on sloe blossom may yield further localities in addition to ones currently scattered across much of the county. The Sloe Pug is easily confused with the Green Pug₁₈₆₀. Diagnostics include: evenly-curved post-median line as it approaches apex (twice sharply-angled post-median line on the Green Pug).

1860       Pasiphila rectangulata (Linnaeus, 1758)  GREEN PUG

A widespread species in Britain, common in the south, less so further north, the larva feeding on blackthorn (Prunus spinosa), apple (Malus spp.), pear (Pyrus communis) and wild cherry (Prunus avium). In Dorset, the moth is widespread and common, rising to abundant in blackthorn thickets. Elsewhere, the moth is frequent among orchards and in gardens where fruit trees grow. It is absent from core heathland.

1861       Pasiphila debiliata (Hübner, 1817)  BILBERRY PUG  Notable/Nb

A very local species restricted to southern and western districts of England and Wales, the larva feeding on bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). In Dorset, bilberry is distinctly local occurring in old woods and on dry ridges or banks on sandy soils. No Bilberry Pugs have been found in any site harbouring the host food plant. However, a single moth was recorded many kilometers from bilberry habitat during a period of notable migrant activity: Trigon, at MV light on 4 July 2001 (C Manley).

1862       Gymnoscelis rufifasciata (Haworth, 1809)  DOUBLE-STRIPED PUG

A common species in Britain, the polyphagous larva feeding on the flowers and leaves of a wide range of plants and shrubs. In Dorset, the moth is ubiquitous and often abundant, especially on gorse-clad heathland and in oak woodland. It has been noted in every month of the year; occasional large well-marked specimens are trapped during migrant activity, especially during October. The moth seems to have three main broods; these are in spring, summer and autumn, respectively, but timings vary according to season.  

1863       Anticollix sparsata (Treitschke, 1828)  DENTATED PUG     Notable/Na

A local species in England, the larva feeding on yellow loosestrife (Lysimachia vulgaris). In Dorset, yellow loosestrife is a local plant that grows by rivers and streams chiefly within the dampest parts of the Poole basin. The habitats occupied by this large and rather rare Pug include wet alder woods next to the Moors River, wet ditches along open woodland rides at Holt Heath, flushed bog at Stoborough Heath, and reed beds and wetland at Holton Heath. There are historical records from Chamberlaynes in fen habitat on the River Piddle and from Norden among fen and reedbed on the Corfe River. The larvae seem to prefer shaded, even lightly wooded habitat, rather than open situations. It is recommended that this species be included in management plans for wetland sites containing viable stocks of yellow loosestrife.