Wingspan 21-23 mm.

Ling Pug (Eupithecia goossensiata) is almost identical, but smaller and greyer, and found closely associated with its food-plant, Heather. Records of Wormwood Pug from the few areas in Charnwood and NW Leicestershire with natural Heather growth should be closely assessed.

If you are recording the caterpillar, please note the host-plant.

Inhabiting open waste ground, gardens and woodland fringes.

The adults fly in June and July and are often attracted to light.

The larval foodplants are a range of low-growing plants, including Ragwort and Yarrow.

This species is widespread and fairly common over much of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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