Facts about world’s largest butterfly: Queen Alexandra's birdwing 

10Nov,2024

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The Queen Alexandra’s birdwing boasts a wingspan that can reach up to 30 cm (12 inches), making it the largest butterfly in the world.

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Largest Wingspan

This butterfly is native exclusively to the rainforests of Papua New Guinea, specifically the Oro Province.

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Endemic to Papua New Guinea

The males and females look distinctly different. Males are smaller, with bright, iridescent green and blue coloring, while females are much larger and sport brown, cream, and white patterns, providing them with better camouflage.

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Sexual Dimorphism

Queen Alexandra's birdwing is listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss from deforestation, palm oil plantations, and its limited geographic range.

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Endangered Status

The lifecycle of this butterfly is long and slow compared to others.

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Slow Development Cycle

The Aristolochia vine, which Queen Alexandra’s birdwing caterpillars feed on, contains toxic compounds.

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Toxic Defense Mechanism

The species was named in honor of Queen Alexandra, the wife of King Edward VII of the United Kingdom.

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Named After British Royalty