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The cool wet spring of 2007 produced heavy infestations of true armyworm larvae which are now being realized as newly emerged moths. True armyworm moths have uniform grayish-brown forewings and grayish-white hindwings. A small distinctive white spot or dot can be seen near the center of each forewing. The wingspan of this moth is about 1-3/8 to 1-1/2 inches in width with the main body of the moth being about 1/2 to 5/8 inches in length. True armyworm moths are readily attracted to light and to flowering shrubs, trees, grasses and other flowering vegetation. During a recent Royals game in Kansas City, thousands of moths gathered around the stadium lights. Similarly, very high numbers of moths can be flushed from grass pastures, yards, and grassy areas where tall grassy vegetation is present. This second generation of moths typically goes to lawns to lay eggs and does not bother field crops. However, grass producers are encouraged to scout grass pastures during the next few weeks to make sure second generation true armyworm larvae have not infested pastures.

Wayne Bailey
BaileyW@missouri.edu