Leopard Magpie Moth Caterpillar

About this pest

The Dazzling Danger: The Leopard Magpie Moth Caterpillar and Your Cycads

While the Leopard Magpie Moth (Zeronopsis leopardina) might charm with its vibrant orange and black wings, its caterpillar stage is a notorious pest for cycad enthusiasts in South Africa and parts of Mozambique. Belonging to the looper family, these brightly coloured caterpillars are destructive devourers, leaving cycads bare and potentially endangering native species. Let’s delve into how to get rid of them naturally and, as a last resort, chemically:

Characteristics:

• Appearance: Black with bold yellow markings resembling a leopard’s pattern, reaching up to 5cm long.
• Behaviour: Feeds gregariously on cycad leaves, stripping them bare in groups.
• Life Cycle: Pupae winter underground, emerging as moths in spring-summer. Females lay eggs on cycads that hatch in a few days into caterpillars that feast for months before pupating.

Why it’s a threat:

• Cycad destruction: Their voracious appetite can defoliate and kill cycads, including endangered species.
• Reduced reproduction: Damage to female cones hinders cycad seed production.
• Easy spread: Caterpillars can disperse widely, infesting new cycads.

Other names:

• Cycad Looper
• Pied Leopard Moth caterpillar
• Luiperd mot (Afrikaans)
• Cycad Borer

Natural control methods:

• Hand-picking: Early detection is key! Remove smaller caterpillars by hand when they’re easier to find.
• Insecticidal soap spray: Effective on younger caterpillars, but repeat applications might be needed.
• Encourage natural predators: Attract birds and beneficial insects like lacewings that enjoy a caterpillar snack.
• Physical barriers: Wrap mesh netting around cycads to prevent egg-laying and caterpillar access.

Chemical control (last resort):

• Insecticides: Use selective options registered for cycads and follow label instructions meticulously.
• Be aware of regulations: Check local regulations regarding insecticide use on specific plants and in your area.
• Remember the risks: Insecticides can harm beneficial insects and pollute the environment. Use them only as a last resort and with caution.