Wingspan 25 to 30 mm. A small but attractive moth, with distinctive chestnut, black and white markings, often with a purplish tinge.

A moorland and heathland species.

It flies between June and August in a single generation, and is attracted to light.

The well-camouflaged larvae feed on heather (Calluna) and heath (Erica).

Occurring widely over the whole of Britain, and often the commonest of the Noctuidae in suitable habitats. 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).