Common on rough ground and chalk downland throughout southern Britain. Widespread and common in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 27-33 mm. Considerable larger than the superficially similar Yponomeuta, and with fewer and larger black spots, with Y. sedella perhaps the closest match in pattern. Larva feeds on flowers and stems of Greater Burdock.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records Very occasional Irregular Uncommon Off-peak, but not unusual Off-peak, but not unusual Main flight time