The larvae feed within a spiining on the upperside of fig leaves (Ficus carica) and pupate in a tough white cocoon in a leaf-edge fold.

[3][4] This species is widespread from the Canary Islands and Madeira, through the Mediterranean Region and North Africa to Asia.

[5][dead link‍] In 2009, it was first recorded in Belgium, established colonies in the east and is expected to spread to the west.

[6] It was first seen in the United Kingdom in 2014 and has since spread to East Anglia, the Isle of Wight and Kent.

The moths fly by day and when they land on a flower they make quick, jerky movements.