Unlike nocturnal true armyworms, fall armyworms feed any time of the day or night, but are most active early in the morning or late in the evening. When abundant, these caterpillars eat all the food at hand and then crawl in great armies to adjoining fields. After feeding for 2 or 3 weeks, the larvae dig about 20 mm into the ground to pupate. Within 2 weeks, a new moth flight occurs. The moths usually fly several miles before laying eggs.
Several generations occur each year in North Carolina.
Cold, wet springs seem to reduce the effectiveness of these parasites and allow large fall armyworm populations to develop. Should an infestation occur late in the summer, delay fall planting as long as practical. The fall armyworm is more difficult to control chemically than the true armyworm. For specific control information, consult the current North Carolina Agricultural Chemicals Manual .