Read the latest fall armyworm update here.
Key points
Since the last update on 22 March 2024, there have been two new confirmed finds. In the 2023/24 growing season, there have been 110 confirmed reports from Northland, Westland, Tasman, Bay of Plenty, Auckland, Waikato, Marlborough, and Canterbury.
- Northland FAW moth flights are still being observed in pheromone traps. Small numbers of FAW larvae are being observed along with other pest species within the same crops.
- Gisborne two FAW finds to date this season, there have been no reports from Hawkes Bay.
- In the South Island, FAW was found in North Canterbury sweetcorn. There have been multiple finds on the West Coast, Tasman and Marlborough. More moths have been caught and early instar larvae being observed in the sides of cobs.
- Reports from Bay of Plenty, Auckland and Waikato are generally coastal.
- Many susceptible crops around the country have been harvested (or are close to harvest) meaning a reduction in FAW’s preferred food source. This means it is important to scout neighbouring paddocks, as, in the absence of maize and sweetcorn, FAW will feed on a large variety of crops. Volunteer maize is another preferred FAW host.
- Parasitism of FAW by the parasitic wasp Cotesia spp, is being observed across the country along with assistance from other beneficials.
- Your observations are important. Please record them and inform us; without them, it is hard to validate and develop the modelling work we are doing.
- The insecticide Sparta® is on label for aerial and ground applications for controlling fall armyworm on maize and sweetcorn crops. Consult your advisor.
Fall armyworm updates will continue fortnightly.