Common on chalk downland and rough ground throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight widespread and fairly common on chalk downland and along the coast, and increasingly common wherever the larval foodplant is allowed to prosper. Wingspan 12-16 mm. The dark coloration of the head and thorax distinguish this species from
C. dubitana and
C. hybridella [Bradley]. Larva feeds on the flowers, stems and roots of Common Ragwort, over-wintering in a cocoon.