New February 2003
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Contents
Caterpillars
Royal moths and silkworm moths
Hornworms
Swallowtails
Tussock moths
Tiger moths
Slug caterpillars
Puss caterpillars
Cutworms, armyworms, underwings and dagger moths
Whites and sulphurs
Tent caterpillars
Brush-footed butterflies, fritillaries and wood nymphs
Prominents and oakworms
Loopers and cankerworms
Milkweed butterflies
Skippers
Bagworms
Snout and grass moths
Sawflies
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Caterpillars in Your Yard and Garden
Imported cabbageworm caterpillars (Pieris rapae) are present from early spring to summer. They produce multiple generations per year.
The body of a full-grown caterpillar is a little over one inch long and uniformly green with a velvetlike texture. On the top of the body in the center and running lengthwise is a thin yellow line. A narrow, broken line of yellow spots or dashes may also be found on the sides. Primary hosts are cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower and kale.
About the family
Caterpillars from the Pieridae family are usually green and slender and lack tubercles or other projections. The body is often covered with short, fine hairs, giving it a velvety appearance. Some adult species are known to travel great distances in mass migrations.
IPM1019, new February 2003