Raspberry: Loopers
categories: Raspberry Raspberry Insects Small Fruits
revision date: 2023-04-12 12:00
Biology
Loopers are green caterpillars up to about 1 1⁄2″ in length. They may have pale or dark stripes along the body. They are distinguished by their characteristic looping or “measuring-worm” movement. Loopers feed on leaves of many plants, chewing holes in the leaves or feeding along leaf margins. The adult of the alfalfa looper, a species common on raspberry, is a mottled brown moth with silver markings. Wingspan is approximately 1 1⁄2″. The primary damage caused by loopers is the contamination of harvested fruit.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Hand-pick and destroy any caterpillars or cocoons found on leaves.
- Natural enemies of caterpillars include predacious beetles, parasitic wasps, and birds. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides when possible to conserve beneficial insects.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Apply to control loopers when first noticed.
- Use a spreader-sticker with liquid Bt formulations.
Approved Pesticides
Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.