Wingspan 15 to 19 mm. Acleris notana is very similar to Acleris ferrugana and both are equally variable. They can only be reliably separated by genitalia dissection. Where specimens have not been confirmed by this means they should be recorded as Acleris ferrugana/notana agg.

Various habitats, especially where Birch is present.

There are two generations (except in the far north), flying in July and then October. The second generation overwinters and reappears in spring.

Feeds mainly on Birch.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 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).