Common in woodland and scrub throughout much of the British Isles, more numerous in the north. Given that the foodplant is not native and uncommon in southern England, and it is likely that most specimens taken in southern England are immigrants. In Hampshire and Isle of Wight recorded numbers vary widely year on year, with 2013 seeing a notable influx of over 300 individuals, with 2018 being another good year. Wingspan 19-25 mm. Larva feeds on Bird Cherry, living gregariously within a silken web.