A local species in Belgium, almost never in great numbers.

The larva lives in the roots and the stem of Carduus nutans or Cirsium vulgare. It hibernates in the larval habitation. Pupation takes place in the upper part of the larval mine.

The adults have been observed from May till well in August. During the day, they rest on the larval foodplant, where they resemble a bird-dropping. They are active at dusk and come to light.