Common on heathland and moorland throughout much of the British Isles, on the Welsh and Scottish hills may be found up to 1000 m. In Hampshire fairly widespread, in damp woodland, where usually seen by day or at light, with only one record of a larval case being found in the county. First recorded from the Isle of Wight in 2014. Wingspan 12-15 mm. Imago most likely to be confused with
I. masculella, which see. Larva mines leaves of Bilberry, living within a movable case, subsequently feeding in the fallen leaves.