Wingspan 28-40 mm. The variation in the extent of black in the wings has been exaggerated by captive interbreeding, but does not occur as much in the wild.

Wide range of habitats, including gardens, hedgerows, parkland and woodland.

On the wing from May to July, it frequently visits artificial light.

The dark brown caterpillar is covered with reddish-orange hairs, and feeds in Autumn on herbaceous plants, bushes and trees.

A common resident in most of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)