Cypress Pug
(Eupithecia phoeniceata), from UK moths
Cypress Pug Eupithecia phoeniceata
70.159 BF1855

(Rambur, 1834)

Wingspan 18-22 mm.

A relatively recent arrival in Britain, being first recorded in Cornwall in 1959. Since then it has spread along the south coast and northwards to the south Midlands.

The adult moth is quite distinctive and flies in August and September, occasionally earlier.

The larvae feed on Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) and other cultivars. They are very well camouflaged, closely resembling a sprig of the foodplant.