The four life stages of the sphinx moth worm include the egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larva is white to pale yellow and it has a black spine and a horn on its rear. When the larva begins to develop, the colors change slightly.

Although it is not likely, if you are convinced that the Catawba worm is ruining your catalpa tree, there are several ways to get rid of them. Preventative measures include insecticides such as Ortho Grub-B-Gon Max, Merit, Arena, Mach2, and Season-Long Grub Control.