Common in broad-leaved woodland, plantations, heaths and gardens throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and common. Wingspan 22-25 mm. The main confusion species is Dwarf Cream Wave I. fuscovenosa, which has dashes, not dots, along termen, and dark streak on basal third of costa. Larva thought to feed on the withered leaves of plants such as Dandelion.
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