The present invention describes novel pyridine-3-sulfonyl compounds having the formula (I) ##STR00001## 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 (II) ##STR00002## 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).