Azalea Caterpillar – Datana major

Azalea Caterpillar   Scientific Name: Datana major Common Name:  Azalea caterpillar, labor day worm Appearance:  Azalea caterpillars are green-colored worms that transform into purple and black worms with yellow stripes as they mature. The adult moths are brownish with a wingspan of 40 to 50mm. It also has a deep red head and legs giving it a characteristic appearance. Host Plants or Food:   Azalea caterpillar feeds on azalea plants as well as on blueberry, oak, and apple plants. The larva only chew holes on the leaves, while the adult caterpillars can eat away the entire shrub. Territory:  Throughout North America Mode of Damage:  They are leaf chewers; the adult and larva feed on the foliage to destroy the plant. Habits and Life History:  Azalea caterpillar feeds mainly on azalea shrubs, hence called azalea caterpillars. Upon disturbing, the caterpillar curls into a C-shape. They attack in large groups during August and September. The females lay eggs in groups of 80 to 100 on the underside of the leaves. After hatching, they pupate in the soil and transform into adults, laying eggs in the summer to continue the growth. They normally produce one generation per year.