Common in woodland, and on heathland and moorland throughout England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common in birch areas, especially on the heathland of the New Forest and in the north-east, but in many areas it has suffered from loss of habitat to housing development. Wingspan 39-44 mm. Characterised by orange coloration of antennae. Larva feeds on Downy and Silver Birch, over-wintering as a pupa.
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