Antherea polyphemus
The specific name of this moth is an allusion to the Greek god Polyphemus sun of Poseidon.. a giant antagonistic one eyed hermit and sheep herder, who held Odysseus and his men captive… while not as imposing. One can only imagine such an eye spot could belong to such as creature as hideous as Polyphemus. The dark powdery scales are a stark contrast to the yellow ring around what is a transparent center where light can pass through. When disturbed this insect engages in what I believe to be a lousy and non rhythmic flapping on the ground.. but to a bird it must be terrifying to see your meal stare back at you with predator eyes! Such a beautiful moth!!
Antherea polyphemus
The specific name of this moth is an allusion to the Greek god Polyphemus sun of Poseidon.. a giant antagonistic one eyed hermit and sheep herder, who held Odysseus and his men captive… while not as imposing. One can only imagine such an eye spot could belong to such as creature as hideous as Polyphemus. The dark powdery scales are a stark contrast to the yellow ring around what is a transparent center where light can pass through. When disturbed this insect engages in what I believe to be a lousy and non rhythmic flapping on the ground.. but to a bird it must be terrifying to see your meal stare back at you with predator eyes! Such a beautiful moth!!