Common Birdwing

The Common Birdwing is famous for its striking color contrast, featuring jet-black forewings and brilliant, bright yellow hindwings. This massive wingspan makes it one of the most spectacular butterflies native to Southeast Asia.

This large butterfly is widespread across the tropical environments of Southeast Asia. They are most frequently spotted flying high in the canopy of Malaysian and Indonesian rainforests.

The larvae feed strictly on toxic plants from the Aristolochia genus. By consuming these vines, the caterpillars absorb toxins that make the adult butterflies highly poisonous to birds and other predators.

While currently not listed as fully endangered, Common Birdwing populations face significant habitat loss due to rapid deforestation. Furthermore, they are heavily targeted by illegal butterfly collectors who prize them for their massive size and vivid colors.