Recent pheromone trap data indicates increasing corn earworm (aka bollworm) moth activity across several monitoring locations in Louisiana with notable “spikes” that can signal increased egg-laying risk in susceptible crops. While early-season captures were variable through March and early April, multiple sites are now showing elevated moth flights from late April into mid-May.

At Boyce, trap captures remained moderate through early May before a sharp increase in mid-May. At Alexandria (Dean Lee Research Station), moth captures peaked in late April with a subsequent decline, suggesting an earlier flight compared to nearby locations. At Winnsboro (Macon Ridge Research Station), captures were sporadic early but intensified dramatically in early May. Similarly, at Alexandria (Bayou Rapides), captures increased steadily through late April and continued trending upward into mid-May.

These moth flights are a timely reminder to intensify scouting especially in fields entering or currently in flowering/reproductive stages, particularly soybean. While moth trap captures are useful indicators of flight activity, they do not represent economic thresholds. Field-based sampling is critical for treatment decisions.

For insecticide application thresholds, product selection, and resistance management guidelines, consult the LSU AgCenter 2026 Louisiana Field Crops Insect Pest Management Guide.

Total corn earworm moths per trap over time (LSU AgCenter Dean Lee Research and Extension Center, Alexandria).

Total corn earworm moths per trap over time (LSU AgCenter Macon Ridge Research Station, Winnsboro).

Total corn earworm moths per trap over time (Boyce, LA)

Total corn earworm moths per trap over time (Bayou Rapides in Alexandria)