Wingspan 32 to 37 mm.

It frequents deciduous woodland and parkland.

Flies in June and July, occasionally again in autumn in the south.

The larvae feed on low plants such as dock and knotgrass.

Distributed mainly in the south-east of England and north Midlands, this distinctive species is quite scarce elsewhere. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).