Priamus Birdwing vs Orange-barred Sulphur

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Priamus Birdwing Orange-barred Sulphur
Scientific Name Ornithoptera priamus Phoebis philea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Pieridae
Size 120-190 mm wingspan Wingspan 67-80mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Herbivores
Regions Oceania (Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, northern Australia) North America, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Priamus Birdwing

A large and variable birdwing butterfly found across Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and parts of northern Australia. Males display vivid green and black wings. It is the most widespread species in the genus Ornithoptera.

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Did You Know?

This species shows extraordinary colour variation across its range, with over 100 subspecies described from different islands.

Orange-barred Sulphur

A large bright yellow butterfly with orange bar markings on the upper forewings. Females are more muted with reddish markings.

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Did You Know?

Males patrol large territories and engage in spiraling aerial battles with rivals that can last several minutes.