Wingspan 33 to 48 mm. Rather similar to the Lunar Hornet Moth, this species can easily be distinguished by the yellow head and tegulae.

Around Poplars.

The moths emerge in June and July, and can be found low down on the trunks in early to mid morning.

The larvae burrow into the wood of Black Poplar (Populus nigra), and other species of Poplar.

It has a southerly distribution, rarely being encountered north of the Midlands. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as Nationally Scarce B.

Occasional or little recorded in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant).