This species is more common in the south and west of the country, but is being more frequently reported from woodland in Essex.
The population at Marks Hall near Coggeshall is referred to in their visitor guide as recently reintroduced.

It is on the wing from the end of June to mid to late August when it can be seen in warm, sheltered clearings in woodland. It over-winters as a caterpillar. The larval food plants are Violets.