Nationally scarce (Nb) in open woodland and also in sand-dunes in parts of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight local in woodlands where the foodplant grows, in particular in Pamber Forest and the New Forest. Wingspan 14-15 mm. The main confusion species are Slender Pug E. tenuiata, Haworth's Pug E. haworthiata and Valerian Pug E. valerianata. Larva feeds on flowers of Common Cow-wheat, 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