Rajah Brooke Birdwing
Common NameRajah Brooke Birdwing
Scientific NameTrogonoptera brookiana albescens
FamilyPapilionidae
SubfamilyPapilioninae
Wingspan (mm)150
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, iridescent green
HabitatTropical rainforests, especially near rivers and streams
Geographic RangeMalay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra
Host PlantsAristolochia foveolata, Aristolochia coadunata
Flight PeriodYear-round
Flight Stylegliding
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are dark with fleshy spines and feed exclusively on *Aristolochia* vines. Pupation occurs on the host plant or nearby vegetation.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, black and iridescent green coloration, and the characteristic 'birdwing' shape. Females are generally larger with more extensive green markings compared to the males.
Description
A large, striking butterfly with velvety black wings adorned with brilliant iridescent green markings. Females typically have broader green bands on the hindwings and a more rounded appearance than males.
