Pug Moth caterpillars (Epithecia sp.) These tiny caterpillars are masters of disguise. The specimens in these images were all feeding on the seeds of common hogweed but it is difficult to say which particular species of the 56 different species of pug moth they are (but they may be White-spotted Pug based on the food plant). They have a looping habit of locomotion and their variable markings camouflage them well on their chosen food plant. One of the 38 species of Lepidoptera found in the Charlton Down Nature Area to date.
Useful Books and Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eupithecia
https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/eupithecia-tripunctaria/
Collins Complete Guide to Butterflies and Moths – a photographic guide to every common species, Paul Sterry, Andrew Cleave, and Rob Read, William Collins, 2016, ISBN 978-0-00-810611-9
Discover more from Charlton Down Nature Area
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Charlton Down Nature Area 
One thought on “Pug Moth Caterpillars”