Common in open woodland, scrubland and grassland throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight especially common away from the chalk in such areas as the New Forest, Harewood Forest, Pamber Forest, Odiham Common Broxhead Common Botley Wood and Ampfield Wood. Wingspan 28-30 mm. An unmistakable day-flying moth. Larva feeds on Wood Sage, 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