Red List: Least Concern (LC). GB Status: Common.

Identification

Usually distinctive. Care required, potential confusion with Thyme Pug.

Recording method

Can be beaten from foodplant by day. Flies from dusk. Attracted to light.

Life cycle

One generation. Overwinters as a pupa. Larvae mid-June to mid-September. Pupates in a flimsy cocoon in pine needles on or below the food plant.

Larval foodplants

Mainly Scots Pine but also known to feed on Lodgepole Pine and Larch.

Habitat

Pine plantations and other areas where pine is abundant.

History

First recorded for Dumfries and Galloway in 1862 for VC73 at Dalskairth by Lennon, in 1890 for VC74 at Corsemalzie by Gordon and in 1997 for VC72 at Hightae Mill Loch.