Caterpillar numbers are greatest in mid-July. Caterpillars have chewing mouthparts. Adults have siphoning mouths. They will also feed on St. Augustinegrass. Caterpillars construct silken shelters by tying leaves together about midway up the host plant.
Heavy infestations are often very localized.
When their food plants are consumed, large numbers of caterpillars migrate to adjacent areas, crawling up buildings and attacking lawns. Adults occur along wooded rows and weedy areas where they visit flowers for nectar. Adults visit wildflower to feed. For additional information, contact your local Texas extension service agent, or search for other state extension service offices.