Novel insecticidal compositions are comprised of an active isovalerate having the structural formula: ##STR1## wherein Z.sup.1 is hydrogen, ##STR2## Z.sup.2 is either ##STR3## when Z.sup.1 is hydrogen, or hydrogen when Z.sup.1 is either ##STR4## A, when Z.sup.1 is ##STR5## is cyano or ethynyl or, when Z.sup.1 is other than ##STR6## is hydrogen, cyano or ethynyl; X and Y which may be the same or different are chlorine or bromine.