Wingspan 10-13 mm.
A metallic bronzy moth with white-tipped dark antennae, occurring throughout most of the British Isles except for the very north of Scotland.
The foodplants are roadside and wasteground growing plants such as thistle (Cirsium) and knapweed (Centaurea spp.). The larva builds a case from silk, resembling a razor shell in appearance.
The nocturnal adults fly in July and August and are attracted to light.
See also Cirsium key.