Wingspan 31 to 36 mm. A rather variable species, usually with warm sandy or pinkish browns. The underwing is the distinctive feature, being pinkish white and showing up well in the light of a moth trap. This distinguishes it from the rest of the group.

Visit Willow blossom as well as bright lights.

Like many related species, the moths fly during March and April.

The caterpillars are quite attractive, being greyish marked with yellow/orange and black. When young they feed gregariously on oak (Quercus) in a silken web, but later separate. They may also then feed on low plants.

One of the less common spring Orthosia species, which occurs locally in southern England and Wales, more infrequently in north-west England and Ireland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland; a recent increase in records from gardens away from woodland habitats is suggestive of distribution change/spread.