Local in woodland rides and edges, thickets, copses, mature hedgerows, embankments and scrubby downland throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight uncommon, and mostly confined to the chalk; some records may have been undeservedly rejected due to confusion with Common Carpet. Wingspan 28-34 mm. The most likely confusion species is
Common Carpet E. alternata but banding on hindwing is almost absent in Wood Carpet, but forms a continuation of the banding on the forewing in Common Carpet. Larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw and Hedge Bedstraw, over-wintering as a pupa.