Common Green Birdwing
Image: MathKnight (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Common NameCommon Green Birdwing
Scientific NameOrnithoptera priamus
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)140
Wing Patterniridescent
Primary Colorsgreen, black
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeNew Guinea, Solomon Islands, northeastern Australia, and surrounding islands
Host PlantsAristolochia
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylesoaring
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on Aristolochia vines. Larvae are dark with fleshy spines, feeding on the host plant's leaves. Pupae are camouflaged green or brown.
Identification TipsMales are easily identified by their impressive size and striking iridescent green hindwings contrasting with black forewings. Females are larger but less colorful, with brown/black wings and white/yellow patches.
Description
A very large butterfly, males have velvety black forewings and brilliant iridescent green hindwings with prominent black veins. Females are larger and typically brown/black with white or yellow markings.
