ADULT: Wingspan up to 17mm. A quite variable moth with both light and dark specimens frequently encountered.  The basal patch to these wings is dark grey to blackish with an angulated edge.  The ocellus is dark edged and surrounds several black dashes.  The cilia are dark grey.  The hindwings are a dirty grey. LARVA: The pinkish-brown grub-like larva burrow into the buds of various trees and shrubs.  This action causes the buds to wither and die. BEHAVIOUR: Attracted to light. HABITAT: Gardens, orchards, woodland edges and parkland. FLIGHT PERIOD: On the wing during July and August. STATUS: Primarily widespread through southern Britain with the odd scattered record further north.