This day-flying moth is named after Old Mother Shipton, a 16th century Yorkshire witch, due to the face on the fore-wing.  It is found on a range of open, grassy habitats, including downland, heathland, low moorland, flower-rich hay meadows, woodland rides, verges and embankments.  The larvae feed on various Clovers, Black Medick, Lucerne, Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil, as well as Cock’s-foot and other grasses.