Common in dry pastures, downland, scrub and waste ground throughout much of the British Isles, less numerous in the north. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread but considerably more local and generally less common than the closely related
A. hamana. Wingspan 15-24 mm. A distinctive species readily recognised by the bright yellow coloration and characteristic pattern of the forewing [Bradley]. Larva feeds within roots of Common Knapweed and Small Scabious.