The velvetbean caterpillar is greenish in color and generally striped, though highly variable. Larvae are very active when disturbed and thresh around. From late August to early October velvetbean caterpillars may devour the leaves of soybeans.
Velvetbean caterpillars do not overwinter in South Carolina. Adult moths are blown in or fly in from the south. They do not occur every year. They lay eggs on host plants; the eggs hatch and produce worms. Worms change to pupae from which moths emerge.
Several generations may be produced in South Carolina after first damage is noted.
