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Azalea Caterpillars (Datana major)
Azalea caterpillars are the larvae of the datana moth and feed in groups on azalea foliage, capable of defoliating entire shrubs if left untreated. They are recognizable by their red heads, white and yellow striped bodies, and black dots along their sides. While a single defoliation rarely kills a healthy plant, repeated attacks can weaken and stress ornamental shrubs significantly. Spray treatments with targeted insecticides during early larval stages provide rapid and effective control.