Wingspan 27-32 mm. An attractive moth with red-brown wings that are crossed by a thick band of golden yellow.

It inhabits wooded valleys, downland and Southern heaths.

Flies in September and October.

The larvae feed on Beech or Field Maple - at first on the buds and subsequently on the flowers and leaves.

Mainly distributed in the South and South-East of England, it occurs locally as far North as Northern England. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)