Antheraea polyphemus, or the Polyphemus moth, eggs are available for shipment to the lower 48 states only! Orders shipping to Alaska or Hawaii will be canceled. The USDA allows shipment of this species without permits within the lower 48 states. These moths are easy to raise and striking beautiful as adults.
Eggs will typically hatch within a week when available so eggs are available for a limited time only. Once the caterpillars hatch, they will need Oak, Willow, Sweetgum, or Maple leaves and plenty of it for 4-6 weeks while they grow. Other host plants exist but these are their favorites. Keep in mind silkmoths like Polyphemus only live for a week or two after they emerge from their cocoon and they may decide to overwinter depending on the time of year when they spin their cocoon.
Each order is for a dozen eggs that will be shipped in a small container the caterpillars can hatch out in. They will need to be transferred to a larger container with food after hatching. We do not recommend putting leaves in with the unhatched eggs. This could kill the eggs from the gas the plant material gives off. If you have any questions while raising your Polyphemus, we're always happy to help but also recommend trying the website for Bart Coppens, https://breedingbutterflies.com.
