Local in open woodland throughout much of Britain, more numerous in the west; rare in Ireland. There are two old records from Hampshire, both in the south. Not recorded on the Isle of Wight to date. Wingspan 11-13 mm. Similar to
A. curvella, from which it is distinguished by its larger size and the shade of brown of the markings, which are almost golden brown, on creamy white ground colour costally (MBGBI Vol 3). Larva mines buds and shoots of Rowan and Whitebeam.