Sod Webworms
Sod webworms are the young (larval) stage of lawn moths.
The young, or larval stage, are caterpillars of various colors. They are the damaging stage of this insect. They live in the thatch and shoots and are not visible unless you actively search for them. They feed on the shoots and stems of the grass. They’re nocturnal feeders, so are not noticeable during the day unless you know what to look for.
The buff-colored adults are 1/2" to 3/4" long and will often be seen flying along the lawn, especially when they’re disturbed by lawn traffic. They flutter around a bit then they’ll land back in another spot on the lawn.
The damage will appear as brown spots that get larger as the caterpillars find new grass to feed on. This damage will be most noticeable in July to early August, when the lawn may be already stressed.
