Cairns Birdwing vs Red Underwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Cairns Birdwing

Australias largest endemic butterfly with males displaying vivid green and black wings. Females are larger and brown with white markings.

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It is the largest butterfly in Australia and was nearly driven to extinction by introduced Dutchmans pipe vines which are toxic to its larvae.

A large moth with bark-like grey forewings and vivid red and black banded hindwings flashed as a startle defense.

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When disturbed from tree bark it flashes its bright red hindwings creating a startle effect then vanishes by closing them.