Common on damp heathland, downland and in flower meadows throughout much of the British Isles, where suitable habitat exists. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight the species is found sparsely in all three vice-counties. Wingspan 17-25 mm. Larva feeds on flowers and seeds of Devil's-bit Scabious, Field Scabious and Small Scabious.
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