Wingspan 23-27 mm. It is completely black except for the white fringes at the tips of the forewings.

It inhabits grassy meadows, dry chalky and limestone districts.

This unusual species flies in the daytime and prefers bright sunshine. The single generation flies in June and July.

The larvae feed mainly on the flowers of Pignut.

Distributed throughout most of Britain and can be plentiful in some locations. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)