It is found in alpine habitat in the South Island and is on the wing from November to February.

[2] The holotype specimen was collected near the Homer Tunnel by John Salmon in 1946.

[1] This species is endemic to New Zealand and can be found throughout the South Island in alpine habitat.

[1] However, I. eris can be found in the mountains surrounding Nelson, whereas I. cana is not present in that locality.

[1] However, it is possible that the larvae exist on short alpine grasses and pupate on bare soil.