I found these two moths in my backyard, in the middle of the lawn. Are they mating? They move when disturbed but not otherwise. I'm worried they'll get eaten by a bird or trampled by my dog so I'd like to move them to a safer place. Is that advisable? I'd also like to get some good macro shots but not if my moving them will hurt them. Can anyone tell me what they are and if I can move them?
These are polyphemus moths - http://www.fcps.edu/islandcreekes/ecology/polyphemus_moth.htm
The lower one is a female and the upper one may be as well.You may be able to move them safely by gently sliding your hand under them...
Here are close-ups of both. The lower one is first and the one closest to the dollar bill is second. I really want to move them but I'm so afraid of doing more harm than good.
The second one clearly is a male...
Thanks Flapdoodle, I guess they are making babies. ha ha
