Polyphemus Moth

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.