Wingspan 29-34 mm. There is a range of colour forms, with the paler individuals generally occurring further south.

This species prefers damp woodland, heaths and fens.

Flying in July and August, the moths are readily attracted to light.

The larvae feed in spring on Willow, spinning together the leaves of terminal shoots.

Widespread and reasonably common over a large part of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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