Wingspan 50 to 57 mm. A large species, which rests with the wings furled tightly around the abdomen, tapering to a point.

Damp woodland, mountain moorland and marshy places.

The flight period is September and October, after which it hibernates, appearing again in March and April.

The larvae feed on a wide range of deciduous trees and shrubs, and low plants.

It has a predominantly southern and western distribution, but is scattered locally to the north of Scotland. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as local.

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