Wingspan 22 to 30 mm.This is a rather variable species.

Inhabiting heaths, moorland and open woodland.

It appears in May and June, sometimes again in August in the south and flies during the day, sometimes abundantly in sunshine.

The caterpillars, which are equally variable, feed on heather, heath and clovers.

It is common throughout Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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