Content by Amanda Bachmann

Brown snailcase bagworm cases on the white underside of a jar lid.

Snailcase Bagworms in South Dakota

A unique insect that has been observed in South Dakota is the snailcase bagworm. Snailcase bagworms are wingless moths that spend their entire life in spiral-shaped “snail” cases, which they build around themselves using a combination of silk, soil particles and fecal matter.

Cicada Killer Wasps Are Active in South Dakota

The cicada killer wasps are active in South Dakota, which means cicadas are probably not far behind. As their name implies, cicada killer wasps use cicadas as a food source. They can present an impressive spectacle if you observe one carrying a paralyzed cicada from a tree.

Two beetles. From left: Yellow beetle with a black head and three distinct black stripes on the back. Yellow beetle with a black head and twelve black spots on the back.

Start Scouting for Striped Cucumber Beetles

Striped cucumber beetles are showing up in gardens across South Dakota. If large populations are present in a garden, they can cause severe injury to squash, cucumbers, melons and other cucurbits if left unmanaged.

Green soybean with wilting/dying soybean within the same row.

Soybean Gall Midge Larvae in South Dakota Soybean

Soybean gall midge larvae were observed in South Dakota soybean this week. Although insecticide applications haven’t been very effective at this stage, it is still important to scout fields and determine the location and extent of soybean gall midge infestations.

White and red caterpillar feeding within silken hideout on green soybean leaf.

Thistle Caterpillars Observed on Canada Thistle

Although thistle caterpillars are normally first observed in July or August, it is possible for them to appear earlier if weather conditions are favorable. While these caterpillars are generally not present in high numbers, they can cause severe defoliation.

Moth with green metallic wings and an orange body resting on a green leaf.

Squash Vine Borer Moths Are Active

Squash vine borer moths have been observed in South Dakota gardens. Now that we know they are active, it is important to take steps to ensure that they don’t have a negative impact on our squash plants.

Small white moth with a pattern of brown stripes on the wings.

What Are the Little Moths All Over My Lawn?

There have been reports of small, light-colored moths showing up by the thousands in people’s lawns. These moths have been identified as sod webworms, which are now emerging throughout South Dakota.

Bed bugs grouped together where the fabric and wood join on a box spring.

Bed Bugs: What You Need To Know

When it comes to household pests, bed bugs can make almost anyone cringe. These tiny, vampire-like critters are pests of humans and can become a persistent problem when they infest homes.

Tan grasshopper with light colored stripes on its back sitting on the soil surface.

Will Grasshoppers Be an Issue in 2021?

With much of South Dakota experiencing dry conditions this year, grasshoppers are one of the insect pests that will need to be monitored. Large grasshopper populations may cause economic loss in cash crops and reduce forage in range and pasture lands.

Young woman applying insect repellant before an evening hike.

Enjoying the Outdoors Without Tick and Mosquito Bites

Outdoor activities seem extra inviting this time of year, and many people are already enjoying the long days and warmer temperatures. Ticks and mosquitoes share the outdoors with us, but there are things you can do to prevent bites from both.