Orkneys Juniper Carpet (Thera juniperata ssp. orcadensis)
The Orkneys Juniper Carpet is a subspecies of the Juniper Carpet (Thera juniperata (L.)), which is distributed from Europe to western Asia; it was described as a distinct subspecies in 1951.
The caterpillars feed exclusively on Common Junipers (Juniperus communis L.).
The nominate form reaches a wingspan of about 2,5 cm; the subspecies discussed here, is smaller and is also lighter, more cream-colored.
The Orkneys Juniper Carpet was restricted to the Orkney Islands and is thought to be extinct now
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edited: 03.05.2022