White-spotted Pug - Eupithecia tripunctaria

Wingspan 17-21 mm. Identified by the distinct white spots on the base of the wings.

It occupies damp areas and well wooded areas.

It has two generations, with adults on the wing in May and June and then in July and August.

The larvae are yellowish green and attractively marked with brown. They feed on the flowers and seeds of Wild Angelica and Hogweed. The spring generation also feeds on the flowers of Elder.

This species is widely distributed throughout Britain except the north of Scotland and can be locally common. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)