TIDBITS
The greatest height reported for migrating butterflies is 19,000 feet.
The greatest distance covered by a migrating butterfy is 3,000 to 4,000 miles by the Painted Lady who travels from Africa to Iceland.
The largest butterfly in the world is the Queen Alexandra Birdwing with an average wingspan of 8 ¼ inches.

PREVENTION
If you routinely have small green caterpillars on your vegetables, you probably have loopers. It is the White Winged Looper moth that is the parent. When these moths appear, cover your vegetables with row crop covering or other finely meshed netting.
If cutworms are a problem, start seedlings indoors or purchase transplants Use barriers made by cutting off the top and bottom of used food containers and placing over young plants.

CONTROLS
Some caterpillars turn into beneficial and beautiful butterflies and moths. If you are not sure what they are, ask a professional.
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a bacterial spray that is toxic to caterpillars when they are small. Use only when needed for large infestations. Follow label directions. Beneficial species are also killed by Bt.
Neem oil is a low toxic and effective choice for control of caterpillars. Follow label directions.
Cutworms can be reduced with beneficial nematodes. Call the Ag Department for details.