description Cairns Birdwing Overview
Ornithoptera euphorion is a large butterfly species endemic to the tropical rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia. It is the largest butterfly found in Australia, with females reaching wingspans of up to 15 centimeters. Males display vivid green and black coloration on their wings, while females are larger with predominantly black, white, and yellow markings. The species belongs to the family Papilionidae.
insights Ranking position
Cairns Birdwing ranks #2 of 310 in the Butterfly ranking, behind Common Morpho, ahead of Bhutan Glory.
help Cairns Birdwing FAQ
How big is the Cairns Birdwing butterfly?
The Cairns Birdwing is the largest butterfly in Australia, with females reaching wingspans of up to 15 centimeters. Males are slightly smaller but display vivid green and black coloration that makes them one of the most striking butterflies in the region.
Where can I see the Cairns Birdwing in the wild?
This species is endemic to the tropical rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia. They are commonly observed in and around Cairns, the Daintree Rainforest, and other areas of the Wet Tropics region.
What does the Cairns Birdwing caterpillar eat?
The caterpillars feed on plants in the Aristolochia genus, particularly the native Dutchman's pipe vine. These plants contain toxins that the caterpillars accumulate, making them unpalatable to predators.
Is the Cairns Birdwing related to other birdwing butterflies?
Yes, it belongs to the genus Ornithoptera, which includes the larger birdwing species found in New Guinea and Southeast Asia. The Cairns Birdwing (Ornithoptera euphorion) is sometimes confused with the Queen Alexandra's Birdwing, which is the largest butterfly in the world.
explore Explore More
Similar to Cairns Birdwing
See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
