Quite a small 'Pug'. with a wingspan of around 15mm.

It occurs in woodland edges, meadows and marshes.

Flies in as single generation in June and July.

The larvae feed in early spring in the (usually male) catkins of willow.

This species is widespread and reasonably common over most 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 and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).