Davey, P., 2009: An abundant species in south-east Britain falling to frequent in the north-west, the larva feeding on the lower stems and roots of various grasses. In Dorset, the moth is ubiquitous and common, increasing to abundant in dry unimproved grassland habitat. "I have never been anywhere in the county, at a suitable time, without seeing this insect." (W Parkinson Curtis ms). The moth is on the wing over a protracted period between late May and early September. The following moths trapped during the autumn are partial second generation examples observed mainly at the end of warm summers: Walditch, 29 October 2006 (M Parsons), West Bexington, at MV on 5 October 1991, 1 October 2002, 6 October 2003, 6 November 2003, 18 November 2006 (R Eden), 18 October 1997, 20 October 1997 (Dr P Sterling, D Hallett), Lyons Gate, on 5 October 2005 (T Box), Puddletown, on 14 December 2003 (H Wood Homer), Iwerne Minster, at MV on 25 October 1962 (H Moore), Furzebrook, at MV on 6 October 1972 (Professor N Webb), Swanage, on 11 October 2006 (R Cox), Gaunts Common, at MV on 8 October 1991 (P Davey), St Ives, at MV on 3 October 1988 (Dr J Clarke), Hengistbury Head, at MV on 17 October 1997 (M Jeffes).

Recorded in 42 (105%) of 40 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1888.
Last Recorded in 2019.
(Data up to end 2019)