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Polyphemus Moth

Polyphemus Moth

Antheraea polyphemus

A species of Tussar moths, Also known as Giant silkworm moth

The polyphemus Moth (Antheraea polyphemus) is named from a cyclops in Greek mythology, Polyphemus. The moth has two large eyespots on either wing, similar to the giant eye of a cyclops. They molt over a period of six weeks to get to their full size, going through a complete metamorphosis from their larval stage.

General Info About Polyphemus Moth
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Attributes of Polyphemus Moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Pink
Habitat
forest; urban area; orchard; wetland
Adult Food Sources
Adults do not feed.
Larva Food Source
Oak leaves, willow leaves, maple leaves, birch leaves, hickory leaves
Non-poisonous
The Polyphemus Moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Polyphemus Moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Polyphemus Moth
It is widespread in continental North America, with local populations found throughout subarctic Canada and the United States. Squirrels have also been known to consume the pupae of the moth, decreasing the population greatly.
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Distribution Area of Polyphemus Moth
United States, Mexico, South Canada
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Appearance of Polyphemus Moth
It is a tan-colored moth. The wingspan is 7 - 15 cm. The most notable feature of the moth is its large, purplish eyespots on its two hindwings. Males have very bushy antennae while females have moderately less bushy antennae. The females are slightly larger in the abdomen due to carrying eggs. Color patterns can range from a reddish cinnamon to a dark brown, but are almost always a shade of brown.
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How to Identify Polyphemus Moth?

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Life Cycle of Polyphemus Moth
Egg The eggs of polyphemus Moth are laid in clusters. Initially, they're small and spherical with a hard protective covering. The coloration can vary from white to creamy hues, depending on the species.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae are minute and primarily consume leaves, showing voracious feeding behavior. As they grow, they molt several times, displaying larger size and different patterns with each instar.
Pupal The larva of polyphemus Moth spins a silk cocoon to enter the pupal phase. During this period, it's immobile and undergoes significant transformation. The pupa may exhibit cryptic coloration for camouflage.
Adult Emerging from the cocoon, the adult polyphemus Moth displays vibrant wings and a robust body. It does not feed, as its primary focus is on mating and reproduction before the end of its lifespan.
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Adult Size of Polyphemus Moth
7 - 15 cm
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Predators of Polyphemus Moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, parasitic flies, spiders
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Scientific Classification of Polyphemus Moth
Tips for Finding Polyphemus Moth
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Habitat Preferences of Polyphemus Moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of polyphemus Moth are commonly laid on a variety of host trees, including maple, oak, and birch. In searching for them, one would inspect the undersides of leaves. Caterpillars, or larvae, are typically found munching on leaves in the canopy of these trees, making tree climbing or binoculars necessary to spot them. Pupae are mostly hidden in cocoons spun in sheltered places like the underside of branches or in leaf litter; careful searching and gentle turning of leaves and twigs might be required to find them. Adult polyphemus Moth moths are usually seen perched on tree trunks or foliage but are nocturnal, so searching for them should be done at dusk or at night using a light source to attract them.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Polyphemus Moth
The suitable time to find adult polyphemus Moth is at night since they are nocturnal. Larvae can be found during the day on their host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Polyphemus Moth
Warm, humid nights are ideal for finding adult polyphemus Moth. Larvae prefer warm, sunny days without excessive wind.
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How and Where Can You Find Polyphemus Moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Polyphemus Moth eggs are laid on the underside of leaves of host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of common host plants, including willow, maple, and oak.
Larva Polyphemus Moth larvae, commonly referred to as caterpillars, can be located by searching on or near their host plants. Look for partially eaten leaves as an indicator of their presence.
Pupal Polyphemus Moth pupae, or cocoons, are often found attached to twigs or concealed in leaf litter. Finding them involves searching around the base of host trees and gently sifting through fallen leaves.
Adult Adult polyphemus Moth are moths that do not feed but are attracted to light and pheromones. To find them, set up a light trap at night or search near the canopy of trees where they might rest during the day.
Are Polyphemus Moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Polyphemus Moth
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Hurt Plant

Polyphemus Moth larvae feed voraciously on leaves without plant preference, leading to defoliation. The degree of damage ranges from mild to severe, contingent on larval infestation levels.

More Effects of Polyphemus Moth

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