This is a Polythemus Moth. It has a single large eye on each hindwing - hence the name Polyphemus (Antaraea polyphemus). Polyphemus is the gigantic one-eyed son of Poseidon and Thoosa in Greek mythology, one of the Cyclopes. His name means "very famous". Polyphemus plays a pivotal role in Homer's Odyssey. The moth, as you can see, also has a small eye on its forewings so perhaps it shouldn't be named after a Cyclops after all!
.jpg)
Once again, I learnt a new word from your blog! As ethymology and generally looking into the origin and evolution of languages are utterly fascinating (I find), to see how phemus and famous are so obviously related is quite nice.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if you know but I have a word blog, Librarian. I used to put up a new word every day but I have been very lax of late. I shall try to be more disciplined and post more regularly.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSorry. I found a typing error in my former comment and therefore deleted it.
ReplyDeleteWhat I meant to say: Thank you for pointing me to your word blog! I guess I'll have to follow that one now, too :-)