Common Birdwing vs Mount Cook Giant Weta
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Birdwing | Mount Cook Giant Weta |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Troides helena | Deinacrida pluvialis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Anostostomatidae |
| Size | Wingspan 140-190mm | 45-65 mm |
| Habitat | Wetlands | Mountains |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Asia | Oceania (New Zealand - South Island, Westland) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
Common Birdwing
A large birdwing butterfly with velvety black forewings and bright golden-yellow hindwings in males. Females are larger and browner.
Did You Know?
Despite being common it is listed under CITES Appendix II which regulates its international trade.
Mount Cook Giant Weta
A rare alpine giant weta restricted to high-altitude zones in the western ranges of the South Island. It inhabits subalpine scrub and tussock. Like other alpine weta, it has evolved remarkable freeze tolerance.
Did You Know?
Despite its common name, this weta is more commonly found in the mountain ranges of Westland rather than near Aoraki/Mount Cook itself.