Wingspan 20 to 25 mm. A delicately mottled and speckled species, this moth sometimes shows a rosy flush, but other specimens may be fairly grey in appearance.

In view of the scarcity of this species in VC55 any records should be supported by photographs.

It occurs in woodland areas especially where plenty of Birch is present.

Flies in May and June, with a second generation in August in the south.

The larvae feed on Birch.

Occurs locally over much of Britain, except for parts of northern England. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Rare in Leicestershire and Rutland. The first confirmed record for this species came from a Quorn garden on 11 Aug 2020.