Wingspan 23-28 mm. A very variable species, with males varying from almost black-and-white to a drab greyish and rather plain appearance. The females are wingless.

Various habitats, particularly Oak woodland.

The adults emerge in February and March sometimes as early as January. The females climb up tree trunks and the males fly weakly to them, also being attracted to light.

The larvae feed mainly on Oak.

This is a fairly common species in England and Wales, local in Scotland.  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 and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)