The larva feeds on dead plant materials. It also feeds on seeds and animal hair (e.g. wool) and therefore the species is sometimes reported as a pest species. The larvae hatch in July and August, then overwinter, and finally pupate in spring. Adults can be found from May to July, thus there is only a single generation per year.
In natural habitats the species does not seem to be a common species, but mass occurrences can be found in or near human settlements (gardens, barns, storage buildings).

The imagines fly on warm evenings at sunset and dusk, and are attracted by artificial light sources.