
Typically, the front wings are darker than the hind wings and are patterned.Ĭutworms are general feeders that can attack a wide range of plants. They generally have a body length of about one inch with wingspans up to 1 1/2 inches across. The most common species of cutworm occurring in Minnesota gardens are the bronzed cutworm, variegated cutworm, black cutworm, dingy cutworm, glassy cutworm and army cutworm.Īdult moths are moderate sized, brown or black insects showing various splotches, or stripes in shades of gray, brown, black or white. Some larvae are dull and others appear glossy or shiny. Some cutworms are a uniform color while others are spotted or striped.
They typically curl into a tight 'C' shape when disturbed.ĭifferent species can look different from one another and they can range in color from brown or tan to pink, green or gray and black.
Black cutworm (with black bumps) curled up in a ‘C’ shape How to identify cutwormsĬutworms are similar in general appearance. They are smooth with very few hairs and are about two inches when fully grown.