Local on heaths throughout much of the British Isles; there is evidence that is adapting to cultivated heathers and hence becoming more widespread in gardens on acid soils. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common in suitable habitat. Wingspan 25-28 mm. Most likely to be confused with
Ortholepis betulae, which see for differences, and
Apomyelois bistriatella, which is broader-winged, first line is whiter and curves on to dorsum, second line curves in middle towards termen and hindwing is more opalescent with more distinct border [Goater]. Larva feeds on Heather and Bilberry, living within a spinning.