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The sod webworm is a foliage-feeding insect, which are prevalent throughout the mid-west and eastern areas of North America. They originate as small tan moths, emerging and becoming active in the warm evenings of late May and June. The adults fly in the evening hours laying eggs randomly throughout the lawn. Small caterpillars hatch from eggs laid on leaf blades, and appear 1 in. long or less and dirty white or tan in color. They frequently have rows of darker spots along their back and are sparsely covered with long hairs. They work their way down the leaf blade giving it a notched appearance. When the larvae are larger, they construct silken burrows in the thatch, which provide shelter during the day. By September, full-grown caterpillars become dormant after burrowing into the thatch or soil. The following spring they pupate, and emerge as adult moths. Early detection and control is imperative because damage can occur rapidly when large numbers appear. The presence of the adult moths darting out of the turf when disturbed by mowing indicates infestation. Damage may occur within two weeks of such active flight period.

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