The wingspan is 11–16 mm. It is an easily recognizable species, although its appearance may vary. The wings have a black mingled with dark brown ground colour. Along the dorsal edge there is a slightly more reddish-brown narrow ribbon. In the middle of each wing there is a wide white cross-band.
Adults are on wing in June and July and can be disturbed, although they quickly return to cover. Males fly in the afternoon sunshine, while the females fly after dark.[1][2]