Common on heathland and moorland throughout much of the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common in the New Forest and in north-east Hampshire. Wingspan 24-28 mm. The moth is usually diurnal, but is recorded occasionally at light. Larva feeds on terminal shoots of Heather and Bell Heather, 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