Common Birdwing vs Paradise Birdwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Birdwing Paradise Birdwing
Scientific Name Troides helena Ornithoptera paradisea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Papilionidae
Size Wingspan 140-190mm 120-170 mm wingspan
Habitat Wetlands Forests
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Asia Oceania (Papua New Guinea)
Conservation Least Concern Vulnerable

Common Birdwing

A large birdwing butterfly with velvety black forewings and bright golden-yellow hindwings in males. Females are larger and browner.

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Did You Know?

Despite being common it is listed under CITES Appendix II which regulates its international trade.

Paradise Birdwing

A spectacular birdwing butterfly endemic to Papua New Guinea, notable for the elongated tails on the male's hindwings. Males display brilliant green and gold colouration. It is found in lowland and hill forests.

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Did You Know?

The male's long hindwing tails trail behind in flight, creating a spectacularly graceful display reminiscent of a bird of paradise.