Wingspan 27-35 mm. It is quite variable, with the relatively frequent ab. flavescens having the darker markings almost absent.

Occupying damp woodland, heathland and marshy places.

Like many of its congeners, it flies in the Autumn, in September and October and is a frequent visitor to both sugar and light.

Again, like similar species, the larvae feed at first on Willow catkins, and then later on herbaceous plants.

A common species in most of Britain. 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)