THE INSECTLIBRARY FIELD GUIDES
Polyphemus MothIdentification, facts & practical guidance
The polyphemus moth is Antheraea polyphemus, a large silk moth with conspicuous eyespots on the hindwings.
Compiled by the InsectLibrary Team · Updated · Editorial policy
Identification and lookalikes
Adults range from tan to reddish brown. Each hindwing has a large eyespot, while the forewing spots are smaller. It lacks the long green hindwing tails of a luna moth.
What does a polyphemus moth eat?
Caterpillars eat leaves of several trees and shrubs, including oak, birch and maple. Adult moths do not eat; they use energy accumulated as caterpillars. Seasonal timing differs with climate and location.
What to do next
Leave a resting adult undisturbed and photograph it without spreading the wings by hand. Include a host-plant photograph when seeking a caterpillar identification.
Polyphemus Moth: species profile
Explore the species profile covered by this guide, with recorded names and available photos.
Sources and further reading
- mdc.mo.gov - polyphemus mothhttps://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/polyphemus-moth
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