Soybean Insects

Woollybear Caterpillars (Arctiidae)

Saltmarsh caterpillar, Eristigme acrea.

Larva of Grammia sp.

Woolybears are very hairy (woolly), yellowish or brown caterpillars ranging up to 2 inches in length. Populations are often overestimated because the larvae and damage are very striking. The smaller larvae often are observed feeding in groups on the underside of the leaves which quickly become skeletonized and die. The larger, very showy, larvae tend to feed exposed on the upper leaf surfaces. In 2006 and 2013, scattered populations developed to levels justifying control.

Please refer to the most recent version of the Soybean Insect Management Guide for control options.

Page last updated 11/01/2013 by J.P. Michaud.