A universal feeder, this caterpillar works in the stem of any large plant preferring giant ragweed, hollyhock, corn, etc. It overwinters as eggs on grasses and moves to emerging weeds first and later to crops. Also called the Virginia tiger moth, the hairy wooly bear caterpillars are yellow or straw-colored general feeders. Populations and damage depend upon annual influx, timing, etc. Hopperburn appears first as a triangular brown wedge at the tip of the leaf, then similarly on laterals, then may progress to marginal browning, curling, and scorching.
Slugs are general feeders attacking many crops, especially in damp situations or wet seasons.
Edited in January 1997, based on material developed in 1985. Lawrence K. Forcier, Director, University of Vermont Extension, Burlington, Vermont. University of Vermont Extension and U.S. Department of Agriculture, cooperating, offer education and employment to everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. Last reviewed April 10, 1998.