A fairly distinctive moth in the adult stage, this species has small blackish patches bordered by raised whitish scale-tufts, giving it a noticeably 'rough' appearance.

Various habitats including gardens and well wooded areas.

The adults fly at night in June and July and often visit the light-trap.

The larvae feed on a number of shrubs and trees, including Hawthorn and Blackthorn.

Quite a common species throughout most of Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Occasional in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = C (very scarce resident or rare migrant)