Local on grassland, downland and in dry open areas in parts of the British Isles, predominantly coastal, especially in Scotland and Ireland. In Hampshire fairly widespread and locally common, but not recorded recently on the Isle of Wight. Wingspan 18-22 mm. The most likely confusion species is
A. putridella, which see for differences. Larva feeds on Wild Carrot, Pepper-saxifrage, Rough Chervil, Hemlock Water-dropwort and Milk-parsley, living between leaves spun together with silk.