Wingspan 13 to17 mm. The species is variable in appearance, depending on the amount of brownish scale on the forewing.

Various habitats especially woodland.

This moth is found on the wing during May and June.

The larvae feed on Birch and Alder.

It is widespread and commonly found throughout Britain. 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).