Black cutworm adult. Photo provided by Wayne Bailey

High numbers of black cutworm (BCW) moths have been captured from several traps across Missouri. "Intensive Captures" of black cutworm moths in central Missouri were reached on the 14th of April, when a Texas pheromone trap captured over 96 male moths in two night. The first intensive pheromone trap captures of (BCW) moths mark the arrival of the first significant migratory flight.

Black cutworm adult. Photo provided by Wayne Bailey

Intensive captures are indicated when at least eight black cutworm moths are captured over two nights in a sticky wing trap, or at least 17 moths are caught over one night in the larger Texas-style metal cone trap. We are awaiting trapping reports from other locations in the state, but expect numbers of moth captures to be significant. During the past three weeks we have approached the "intensive" capture threshold on two or three different nights. Although the "intensive" capture threshold was not reached, there is the possibility that these early reports of moths may result in BCW larval damage earlier than our model predicts. The model and predictions will be highlighted in the next newsletter. Additional information on moth captures can be viewed at www.ipm.missouri.edu. edu. The black cutworm model uses trap captures and degree days to predict first cutting by 4th instar black cutworm larvae. This information can be viewed at http://agebb.missouri.edu/weather/reports/bcwforecast.htm. Black cutworm cutting. Photo provided by Wayne Bailey

Wayne Bailey
Entomology
573-882-2838 office
573-864-9905 cell