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Polyphemus Moth

Moths of Pennsylvania

This is a male Antheraea polyphemus moth
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This one was caught by Adam at his house on July 20th. It came to the bug zapper light sheet around 11 pm.

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These are Polyphemus Moths, or Antheraea polyphemus. It is one of the more common silk moths in our area and is easily recognizable by its large eyespots on each hind wing. It is the second largest moth native to North America (Male 4-5 in., female 4-6), behind only the Cecropia Moth. Polyphemus Moths fly from June to August in our region. Its caterpillars feed on oak, willow, maple, and birch.