photo of a beet armywormBeet Armyworm: A complete absence of body hairs is one of the most notable traits of beet armyworm caterpillars, a trait that they share with yellowstriped armyworms. The presence of a small dark spot directly over the middle pair of true legs is also helpful in identifying the lighter color phases of beet armyworm (this dot is obscured or difficult to see in the darker color phases, and is barely distinguishable in this caterpillar). The beet armyworm moth is about 1/2 inch in length and has grey forewings with a distinct light colored spot near the center. The hind wings are white, making moths that are flying appear lighter in color. Eggs are deposited in masses containing many dozen eggs, usually on the underside of the leaf, and covered with scales from the body of the female moth. Larvae feed gregariously for several days after hatching. Initially larvae feed from the underside of the leaf but leave the upper clear epidermis of the leaf intact, which results in windowpane-like damaged areas that are often referred to as "hits". These "hits" are easily seen from the top side of the leaf and are often used in scouting for beet armyworms. Beet armyworm larvae are primarily foliage feeders, and therefore, defoliation is the primary type of damage. However, during heavy outbreaks, larvae will also feed on blooms and other fruit forms. Beet armyworms pupate in the soil.