The Polyphemus moth (Antheraea polyphemus) is the most widely distributed of the giant silk moths in North America. The ethereal luna moth (Actias luna) is another large, common and well-known ...

Yet another large (4-to-6-inch wingspan) and quite common silk moth is the Polyphemus moth. The colors of the adults vary from a pale tan to a reddish tan, with a prominent eyespot on the hind wings.

Polyphemus moths are named after the one-eyed giant of Greek mythology. Polyphemus was a huge half-human Cyclops, the son of Poisidon and Thoosa. He is best known for capturing Odysseus in Homer ...

Common name: Giant Silk Moth. Species: Antheraea polyphemus. Appearance: Tan, beige or chestnut brown. Wing span of 4-6 inches. Two bold, owl-like fake eyes on its hind wings.

The giant silk moths, also known as saturniids, are found worldwide with an estimated 2,200 to 2,300 species in total. Most are rather large with heavy bodies that are covered in hair-like scales ...

Thu., June 23, 2011 A Polyphemus Moth discovered in the large pines along the Kettle River. This is a North American member of the giant silk moths. The most notable feature of the moth is its ...

Attracted by a porch light, this giant silk moth fluttering about is quite mesmerizing. The Polyphemus Moth is a mellow brown and has a 6-inch wingspan.

None of the giant silk moths feeds at all as an adult. When the caterpillars finish their feeding near the end of the summer, they descend from the tree and find a place to spin a silken cocoon.

‘Tis the season to enjoy large, winged creatures on the back porch. And I’m not referring to birds. I’m describing some of the more conspicuous giant silk moths.