This could be favorable to late season infestations of pests such as beet armyworm, tobacco budworms, and loopers. Once the eradication program begins it is extremely important that every field in the eradication area be identified and treated. Growers or consultants who have fields that they think are not being treated should contact the field unit supervisor. The larvae are definitely unusual looking when compared to a caterpillar. They appear to be headless and are legless.
Body color varies from green to brown.
Despite the absence of legs, the larvae are capable of moving quickly in a looping type motion. The pupa, which is often found attached to a leaf or square bract, is somewhat hardened and similar to the larva in general shape. One of the most distinguishing characteristics of the adults is that the abdomen is ringed with alternating yellow and dark stripes. They are commonly seen hovering over the terminals of cotton plants. The larvae prey heavily on aphids and may consume up to 50 per day.