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Armyworm moths are becoming more abundant. They migrate northward from 

 the states to the south of Illinois. Migrations will continue for several weeks. 

 This cool, wet weather is favorable for armyworms. The moths will be laying eggs 

 for the next few weeks. The early moths lay eggs in timothy and bluegrass fields, 

 while moths arriving later lay eggs in winter barley, rye, and wheat in that order. 



It is too soon to predict the abundance of armyworms by the extent cf 

 moth flight. Accurate predictions can be made only by the number of worms in the 

 fields by the middle to latter part of May. 



Black cutworm moths have also been appearing at our light traps for the 

 past two weeks. The wet weather favors worm development. It will be necessary 

 to observe cornfields beginning in early to mid-May to determine the extent of 

 cutworm populations. Low, wet areas and poorly drained sections in a field are 

 the preferred sites for black cutworms. 



Face flies were observed in low numbers on pastured cattle for the first 

 time this week. These are overwintering adults that have recently come out of 

 hibernation. They will mate and begin laying eggs for the first generation due 

 to arrive about the end of May. Face fly numbers have been declining steadily 

 since 1962, and there is no reason to expect any serious problems this year. 

 Time will tell. 



Aphids and mealy bugs are presently attacking some hawthorne trees. The 

 aphids are small, green sucking insects that congregate and feed on developing 

 buds and leaves. Tiny white cocoons on the trunk are an indication of mealy bugs. 

 If the insects are numerous, a spray using 2 teaspoons of 50-51% malathion emulsion 

 concentrate per gallon will effectively control both types of insects. 



Ants are now entering homes in search of food. To prevent them from 

 entering, spray the outside foundation with 2 percent chlordane or 1/2 percent 

 dieldrin. 3uy the liquid emulsion concentrate and dilute it with water to the 

 proper strength. Spray the foundation to the point of runoff from the sill to 

 the soil. Also spray two or three inches of soil next to the foundation wall. 

 Spray cracks or expansion joints along porches and around steps. In houses with 

 crawl spaces, it would be best to treat along the inside of the foundation wall 

 as well as the outside. Do not spray near wells or cisterns. Do not spray shrub- 

 bery or flowers, as the oil may burn the foliage. 



Caution : Before applying insecticides, read the labels carefully and 

 follow all precautions. This not only will insure personal safety, but will also 

 eliminate residue hazards. 



This weekly report was prepared by H. B. Petty, Steve Moore, Roscoe 

 Randell, and Clarence E. White, Illinois Natural History Survey and University of 

 Illinois College of Agriculture, in cooperation with the USDA Agricultural Service, 

 Plant Pest Control Branch, from information gathered by entomologists and coopera- 

 tors who send in weekly reports from their own localities. 



Sent by: H. 3. Petty 



Extension Specialist 

 in Entomology 



HBP:3M:RR:CEW:be 



