Cutworms

The larvae or caterpillars of some moths are called cutworms (Agrotis, Amathes, Peridroma, Prodenia spp.) because of the manner in which they cut down young plants as they feed. The adults are night-flying moths which feed on nectar, if at all, and do no damage. There are many species of cutworms. While they all feed on plants by chewing, they vary as to damage done and host plants preferred. Generally they destroy more of the plant than they eat.

Common Cutworms in Maine

army cutworm larva
Army cutworm larva

black cutworm larva
Black cutworm larva

variegated cutworm larva
Variegated cutworm larva

army cutworm adult
Army cutworm adult

black cutworm adult
Black Cutworm adult

variegated cutworm adult
Variegated cutworm adult

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Identification and Control Information

More Information

[Photos, left to right: Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org; Ian Kimber, Bugwood.org; Ian Kimber, Bugwood.org]