The present invention describes novel pyridine-3-sullonyl compounds having the formula (I) wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4 and R.sup.5 are as defined herein. The present invention is also directed lo pesticidal compositions that include a) compounds of formula (11) wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4 and R.sup.6 are as defined herein and b) a carrier. Moreover, the present invention relates to methods for protecting crops from insect attack by contacting the crop with a pesticidally effective amount of the compound of formula (II). In addition, the present invention includes methods for controlling insects by treating the target species with a pesticidally effective amount of the compound of formula (II).