However, army cutworms also occur in western Colorado and may be an important crop pests in late winter and spring. Severe nuisance problems with “millers” seem to be limited to eastern Colorado. The wing patterns of the moths are variable in color and markings, but all have a distinctive kidney-shaped marking on the forewing. It is generally gray or light brown with wavy dark and light markings on the wings. In some years it becomes a serious nuisance pest, particularly during its annual migration from the plains to the mountains in late spring.Īrmy cutworm moths have a wing span of 1.5 to 2 inches. In Colorado and much of the Rocky Mountain west, the common ‘miller’ is the adult stage of the army cutworm, Euxoa auxiliaris. ‘Miller moth’ is the term given to any type of moth that is abundant in and around homes. Army cutworm moths showing variable patterning. Army cutworm with damaged seedling.įigure 3. Receive moths that may have migrated well over a hundred miles en route to summer feeding sites.įigure 1: Army cutworm moth. During warm months the ‘miller moths’ migrate to higher elevations as they seek flowering plants.The adult form of the army cutworm feeds on nectar in late spring through early fall.The caterpillar stage of the army cutworm feeds on crops and garden plants in winter and early spring.The ‘miller moth,’ common in Colorado and adjacent states, is the adult stage of the army cutworm.
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