The Green Pug is a non-native moth that sometimes comes in a shocking, green color. It could also be brown, gray, or a mixture all of these colors depending on its maturity. The green color fades as the moth experiences weathering. Regardless of hue, the wings are covered in a tight formation of dark squiggly lines. A dark patch on each wing can be found at the wing tip and again a little further in. The green or brown body has a single black dot at the bottom of each segment and a dark ‘belt’ across the middle of it. It is the only one of its genus in North America.
The caterpillar likely feeds on the same plants here that it does in Europe. Apple, cherry, serviceberry, hawthorn, and pear trees are possible hosts. It is not considered a pest. Adults are most active from the beginning to the end of summer, and they are attracted to lights at night. Look for them in open areas that sport some vegetation like parks, undeveloped lots, gardens, and orchards.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Butterfly and Moth Anatomy
1
Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.
3
Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.
5
Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.
6
Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.
NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.
Colors: green; black; gray; brown
