CUTWORMS AND ARMY-WORMS 



281 



The Yellow-Headed Cutworm 



Hadena arctica Boisduval 



Like the glassy cutworm, this species Uves from one to two 

 inches below the surface of the ground, feeding on the roots 

 and cutting off the underground stems of plants. The moths 

 are attracted to lights in great numbers and are often seen; 

 the caterpillars, however, have not elicited as much attention 

 by their injuries as would be expected. It is primarily a field 

 crop pest injuring grasses, oats, wheat and corn. It also feeds 

 on cabbage, spinach, turnip, lettuce and the succulent shoots 

 of roses and currants. The insect is widely distributed through- 

 out the northern United States and Canada. 



The winter is passed as partly grown caterpillars. The 

 larvae are most destructive in May and June. The full-grown 

 caterpillar is 1|- inches in 

 length and closely resembles 

 the glassy cutworm, from 

 which it may be distin- 

 guished by its yellow head. 

 Pupation takes place in the 

 ground. The pupa in size 

 and color is almost identical 

 to that of the glassy cut- 

 worm. The adults emerge Fig. 169. 

 in about a month and are on 

 the wing from June to September. The moth has an expanse of 

 nearly 2 inches. The front wings are rich reddish brown, 

 bluish gray at the base and with a broad transverse band of 

 the same color near the outer margin. The whole wing is mot- 

 tled with varying shades of deep brown and blue-gray, giving 

 it the appearance of a rich brocade. The hind wings are 

 brownish, darker on the outer third^ and with a dark discal 

 spot. The thorax is ornamented with dense tufts of chestnut- 



— The yellow-headed cutworm 

 moth (natural size). 



