Variegated Cutworm

This climbing cutworm larva has four or five yellowish white, somewhat diamond-shaped spots (one per segment) on the top of the back that get progressively smaller toward the rear. Producers should look for this pest at the same time they are checking for growth on secondary buds while scouting fields to time the first cutting. If high populations of mature variegated cutworm are discovered before cutting, it may be advisable to delay cutting a few days so that the majority of the larvae pupate.