Wingspan 19 to 22 mm. This fairly distinctive Agonopterix is easily identified by the combination of rufous, black and white in the centre of the forewing.

Areas where willow is plentiful.

Overwinters as an adult, often being found in early spring as it awakes from hibernation.

The larva feeds on various willows, feeding between leaves spun together with silk.

Relatively common throughout the British Isles. In the Butterfly Conservation's Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

It appears to be uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland, where there are few records. L&R Moth Group status = D (rare or rarely recorded).