Moths of the army cutworm, Chorizagrotis auxiliaris (Grote), (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) responded ovipositionally to differences in soil color, texture, and depth. Number of eggs laid increased with amount of light reflected. A combination of loose surface over a solid substrate was required. A light-colored sand fulfilled all requirements and was preferred over soil. Soil was acceptable when a loose surface of correct depth was provided. Solid surfaces were refused
