Yay! Evelyn! Hope you can settle in soon, and that things are not in too bad of shape.
Ratchet: The caterpillars are probably fall armyworm. Major outbreaks in many areas of the country. Grasses are main host, but they will feed on many plants. I couldn't find iris listed as a host, but if they are hungry, I bet they wouldn't care.
More info: https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1859
Hope you can settle in soon, and that things are not in too bad of shape.
