Photo © Roy Leverton

Scarce Pug

Eupithecia extensaria

Checklist Number
70.178 [B&F: 1847]

Verification
Record will require further evidence, at least a good photograph, unless CMR is aware recorder has confidence in identification

Classification

Family:Geometridae
Subfamily:Larentiinae (Eupetheciini)
Genus:Eupithecia
Species:extensaria
Authority:(Freyer, 1844)

A rare Red Data Book species, occurring in saltmarshes along the coasts of eastern England from Essex to Yorkshire, but mainly around the Wash, a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Not recorded in Hampshire or on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 22-25 mm. Unmistakable. Larva feeds on flowers and leaves of Sea Wormwood, over-wintering as a pupa.