Foxglove Pug

This moth is a brightly coloured member of the Pug family with alternating bands of grey-brown and buff-orange across the forewings. The hindwings have similar markings but are generally paler. Can be confused with the rarer Toadflax Pug.

Flies during the day in May and June and is attracted to light. The caterpillars, feed inside the flowers of Foxglove and can be seen from late June to mid-August before overwintering as pupae in loose earth.

Size and Family

• Family – Carpets, pugs and allies (Geometridae)
• Small Sized
• Wingspan Range – 20-24mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

The larvae feed on the inside of Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) flowers, especially on the stamens and developing seeds, protected by closing off an individual floret.

Habitat

A range of habitats where the Foxglove can be found including woodland, grassland and verges.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland
• Common and widespread across Britain including the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands.