Common in hedgerows, downland, fens, sand-dunes and sea cliffs throughout much of England and in Scotland, where f. callunae with a two-year cycle, predominates. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight common on the heaths of the New Forest, more rarely elsewhere in the county, especially along the coasts. Wingspan male 58-74 mm, female 72-90 mm. Unmistakable. Larva polyphagous on various deciduous trees and shrubs, including Oak, Birch, Bramble, Blackthorn, Hawthorn, Hazel and Sea Buckthorn.