East Texas pastures and hay fields are overrun by armyworm caterpillars.
Armyworms can be found on nearly any plant as they migrate in search of edible foliage. Plants attacked by armyworms include fescue (grass), grain and forage sorghum, corn, small grains, sweet potatoes, beans, turnip, clover, spinach, cucumber, tomatoes, cotton and cabbage, according to the Tyler Morning Telegraph.
The armyworm caterpillar can be identified by the light-colored markings of an upside down Y along the seams (sutures) on its head. They are night and early morning feeders and can be easily found by walking through fields still wet with dew or by the presence of a large number of cattle egrets in a pasture without the presence of cattle.
Removal of its food source, such as cutting hay, does not always control armyworm infestation. Insecticides can be effective, but farmers will need to weigh their use to the crop growth stage. Insect parasites such as wasps, flies and ground beetles can help subdue armyworm numbers except when heavy infestation occurs.