CUTWORMS


Cutworms

ID Features: Larvae

Black Cutworm
  • Pale gray to black
  • Pale stripe down back
  • No distinct markings

  • Bronzed Cutworm
  • Dark, brown-black above, pale beneath
  • 3 narrow yellow stripes on upper surface
  • Broad, pale white-yellow stripes on each side
  • 1-1/2 - 2" long
  • Dark brown head


  • Adults
  • Night flying moths
  • Hairy, robust
  • Brownish tan to grayish
  • Front wings darker than hind pair
  • Damaging Stages:
  • Larvae (caterpillars)
  • Damage & Signs
    of Activity:
  • Feed at night
  • Chew off grass blades close to base of plant
  • Cause brown spots 1-2" around burrows
  • Bird feeding may indicate cutworm presence
  • Green pellets (frass) in feeding area
  • Damaging
    Periods:
  • Spring and summer
  • Grasses
    Preferred:
  • Most grasses