Local on chalk downland and calcareous soils in parts of East Anglia and the Thames Estuary, also appearing as a migrant on the south coast of England, in some years arriving in sufficient numbers to breed. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight an uncommon migrant, appearing mostly on southern coasts and infrequent inland, which may occasionally breed. Wingspan 27-31 mm. Distinctive and easy to recognise. Larvae feeds within seedheads of various Cruciferae.
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