Large yellow underwing caterpillar (cutworm)

Gardens, fields, lawns, and other open habitats; often hides in soil or leaf litter by day.

Caterpillars feed at night on leaves, seedlings, and roots of many plants; adults feed mainly on nectar.

The caterpillar curls into a C-shape when disturbed and is active mostly at night. It pupates in soil; adults are nocturnal moths.

Larvae can damage garden crops and ornamental plants, especially seedlings. They are harmless to people and serve as prey for birds and other predators.