Unexpected visitor - Giant emperor moth

“Saturnia pyri, the giant peacock moth, great peacock moth, giant emperor moth or Viennese emperor, is a Saturniid moth which is native to Europe. The species was first described by Michael Denis and Ignaz Schiffermüller in 1775. It is the largest European moth, with a wingspan reaching 15–20 cm.”





Most of all, I wondered what kind of butterfly or moth is it. Until I did the research I thought it is a butterfly. But it is actually a moth. They are from same insect family but still has differenced. You can clearly see four “eyes” in the wings. A quick Google Image search and some research showed me what kind of moth it is.As from eyes in the wings, color, and design most probably it is Saturnia pyri. This is a description of Saturnia pyri in theIn my hometown where the picture of this moth was taken, people also call them a “spirit moth” as a superstitious belief.Anyway, it is good to see one and learn that it is the largest European moth.The photo was taken in the city of Sheki, northern Azerbaijan by Abdurrahman Gadimov (my father).See other photos by