Wingspan 35 to 40 mm. The English and scientific names of this moth are derived from the yellowish colour of the antennae. The adult is greyish, with a finely speckled appearance, and has darker cross-lines and a distinct whitish spot.

Inhabits woodland, other well wooded areas and heaths where Birch occurs.

It is an early species, flying in March and April.

The larval foodplant is Birch.

It is generally distributed and fairly common in Britain; in Scotland, the larger and darker scotica race occurs. 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).