Wingspan 25 to 32 mm.This species shows a range of colour forms, with generally darker specimens further north.

It inhabits peat moorland and grassland.

There is one generation, with the moths flying in July and August.

The larvae feed on Bilberry.

Distributed throughout Britain, including the very north of Scotland, though less common in the south and east. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

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