Eight-spotted forester

Cutworms, armyworms, underwings and dagger moths

Eight-spotted forester caterpillars (Alypia octomaculata) are present from spring to early fall. They produce one to two generations per year.
 

The body color of full-grown caterpillars consists of transverse, alternating narrow black and white lines. On each abdominal segment there is also a wider orange band. Associated with these orange bands are numerous, small black tubercles from which arises a single, long white hair. The head is orange with black spots. Host plants are grape and Virginia creeper.

About the family

Noctuidae is the largest family in the order Lepidoptera. The body of the caterpillars ranges from smooth with very little hair to clothed with short or long hairs; coloration varies from dull-colored to bright stripes or patches to cryptic. Although many species are found feeding on the foliage of forest or shade trees, they are not considered serious pests. However, several species are damaging to many field, vegetable and fruit crops.