FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 1, l$6k 



INSECT SURVEY BULLETIN HO. 3 



This is the third in a series of weekly bulletins on the general insect 

 situation in Illinois (fruit insects excepted), prepared by entomologists of the Uni- 

 versity of Illinois College of Agriculture, Illinois Natural History Survey and co- 

 operating agencies. It is designed to forewarn people in Illinois of impending 

 changes in insect activity and to suggest abbreviated control measures. These reports 

 indicate only general trends. Each individual should check his own fields to deter- 

 mine local conditions. 



Clover leaf weevils are abundant in some fields in western Illinois north 

 of St. Louis. However, the clover is growing rapidly, and the weevil feeding is not 

 retarding growth. Furthermore, a fungus disease of the weevils is now killing some 

 of them. We saw no fields requiring control measures. 



Armyworm moths are still very abundant. These large, brown, heavy -bodied 

 moths can be found hiding during the day in shrubs and tall grasses. At night they 

 are attracted to lights and can also be found in large numbers around trees in blos- 

 som. The moths deposit eggs in rank stands of grain and grasses, and the worms mi- 

 grate from these areas. Small, newly hatched worms were found in southern Illinois 

 this week. Later counts will determine the importance of these worms. 



Spotted alfalfa aphids were collected for the first time this year. How- 

 ever, only a few were present. This experience is similar to that of last year, when 

 this aphid did not present any problem. 



Cankerworms were observed feeding on elm in western and southwestern Illi- 

 nois this week. These worms can be controlled with lead arsenate sprays. 



Elm leaf beetles are migrating from hibernating quarters to Chinese elms. 

 These beetles are about l/k inch long with yellow legs and antennae and dirty- 

 yellow bodies. In the process of leaving hibernating quarters alongside buildings, 

 some beetles will get into homes, where they are annoying but not damaging. The lar- 

 vae are the ugly yellow worms that will skeletonize Chinese elm leaves. There are 

 two generations each year. Sevin or lead arsenate sprays provide control. 



Ants are now foraging for food. These pests commonly live in nests in the 

 soil and migrate into homes for food. A foundation spray of l/2$ dieldrin or 2$ 

 chlordane will control them before they can enter your home. Buy an emulsifiable 

 concentrate, dilute it with water to the proper strength and apply this spray to the 

 outside foundation all the way around the house. 



Variegated cutworms , newly hatched, were found in clover and alfalfa in 

 southern Illinois. It is too soon to determine their importance, but they will bear 

 watching. 



Caution : Before applying insecticides, read the labels carefully and fol- 

 low all precautions. This not only will insure personal safety, but will also elimi- 

 nate insecticide residue hazards. 



This weekly report was prepared by H. B. Petty, Steve Moore and C. E. TJhite, 

 Illinois Natural History Survey and Illinois College of Agriculture, 

 with the USDA Agricultural Service, Plant Pest Control Branch, from in! 

 ered by entomologists and cooperators who send in weekly reports from the^' P™^ 



CQ.-Ll'fclS S • 



