Common in hedgerows, scrub, downland, open woodland and gardens throughout southern England and south Wales, north to Cumbria. Widespread and fairly common in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 56-98 mm. One of the most remarkably camouflaged of all British moths. Larva feeds on Blackthorn and Hawthorn, and less frequently on Apple, Buckthorn and Alder Buckthorn.
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