Cutworms
The larvae or caterpillars of some moths are called cutworms (Agrotis, Amathes, Peridroma, Prodenia spp.) because of the manner in which they cut down young plants as they feed. The adults are night-flying moths which feed on nectar, if at all, and do no damage. There are many species of cutworms. While they all feed on plants by chewing, they vary as to damage done and host plants preferred. Generally they destroy more of the plant than they eat.
Common Cutworms in Maine
Army cutworm larva
Black cutworm larva
Variegated cutworm larva
Army cutworm adult
Black Cutworm adult
Variegated cutworm adult
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Identification and Control Information
- Fact Sheet: Cutworms (PDF)—University of New Hampshire Cooeprative Extension
- Entomological Notes: Black Cutworm (PDF)—Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension
More Information
- Organic and Sustainable Pest Management for Home Lawns—North Carolina Cooperative Extension
[Photos, left to right: Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Ian Kimber, Bugwood.org; Ian Kimber, Bugwood.org]