The zebra caterpillar is the larva of an American noctuid moth (Melanchra picta) that feeds on cabbages, beets and other cultivated plants. The head, thorax, and forewings of adults are chestnut- or reddish-brown, usually with purplish brown mottling on the wings. The whitish hind wings have pale brown margins. The abdomen is light gray. The wingspan is 35 to 40 mm (1.4 to 1.6 in). The larvae first feed in small compact groups until molting, after which they scatter throughout the foliage. They feed during the day. When disturbed on foliage, they roll up and fall to the ground.