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Polyphemus Moth
Antheraea polyphemus
32.5252, -93.7502
Field Notes
Description:
I believe that this is a Polyphemus moth, named after the cyclops, because of the giant "eyes" on the hind wings. The adults don't feed at all and only live for about a week. The males can detect pheromones using their feathery antennae, and will often travel miles following a specific female moth. I believe that this specimen was a male. The female's antennae are supposed to be thin and narrow.
Habitat:
"It is widespread throughout much of North America, from southern Canada to parts of Mexico."
Notes:
This moth was found in the parking lot of a small store in Shreveport, Louisiana in April, 2010 at about midnight.
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