Looper


Photo shows one species of looper found infesting soybeans in the state.

Three species have been found on soybeans in the state-false looper, cabbage looper, and the spotted looper. Most loopers are greenish in color and crawl with the characteristic hump in their bodies. They feed by eating the soybean leaves.

They spend the winter in the pupal stage in silken cocoons attached to plants or other objects. Moths emerge in the spring and lay their eggs on vegetables and legumes. Adult moths are active mostly at night.

There are several generations each year. The real infestation usually occurs from mid-August until early September.