Yellow-striped Armyworm

Agricultural fields, gardens, and meadows across North America, especially in the southern United States.

Broad host range including crops like corn, cotton, tomatoes, and alfalfa, as well as various weeds and ornamental plants.

Larvae are active both day and night, though they often hide in soil or debris during the hottest parts of the day. They undergo multiple instars before pupating in the soil.

Considered a significant agricultural pest due to its ability to defoliate crops rapidly; however, they serve as a food source for various birds, predatory insects, and parasitic wasps.