Wingspan 40 to 42 mm. Very similar to The Shark (C. umbratica), it can be told apart by the fringe of the hindwing, which has a darker central line running through the centre, forming a triple-banded effect. In umbratica, the fringe is all pale with just a single darker line on the inner edge.

Found on roadside verges, waste ground and commons.

April to June.

The caterpillars feed on various Compositae, including Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile).

It is is found In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.throughout England, Wales and into southern Scotland but is rarer further north. Local in Ireland.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant).