Common in grassland, farmland, gardens and woodland rides throughout the British Isles. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight some evidence of a decrease in numbers in recent years. Wingspan 34-42 mm. The conspicuous undulating black basal streak is highly distinctive and precludes confusion with most species (MBGBI Vol 10). Larva feeds on seeds and leaves of various grasses, including Cock's-foot and Common Couch, and some cereal crops.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records
Very occasional
Irregular
Uncommon
Off-peak, but not unusual
Off-peak, but not unusual
Main flight time