Wingspan 22 to 25 mm. Large white spots one extending two-thirds of the way along the leading edge of the brownish black forewing, and white band on the hindwing are diagnostic of this rather distinctive moth.

It can be found in dry, sandy or chalky terrain and wasteland.

It is on the wing between May and August, and flies from dusk into the night.

The larvae feed on field Bindweed and prefer the buds of flowers.

This scarce and vulnerable species was once widely distributed in the south, but is now restricted to a few small populations in Dorset, the Brecks and elsewhere. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as Nationally Scarce A.

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