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Tuna – they can’t pump water through their gills without swimming.
2 Goliath Birdwing
Wingspan: 10-11 in (27-28 cm)
Distribution Area: New Guinea
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Prominent Colors: Green, yellow, black
The Goliath Birdwing, so named for its massive stature, is said to be one of the rarest of the large, non-threatened butterfly species. Its host plants are low in number to begin with, and the larvae of the Goliath Birdwing tend to take a massive toll on their host plants, sometimes obliterating them completely. Interestingly, the larvae move between different types of plants as they age, and their feeding habits tend to evolve with them as well.
Did you know?
The subspecies of the Goliath Birdwing are also all named after giants of ancient mythology: Atlas, Titan and Samson.
1. Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing
Wingspan: 11 inches (28 cm)
Distribution Area: Papua New Guinea
Conservation Status: Endangered
Prominent Colors: Blue-green, black
The Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing is the largest butterfly in the world by wingspan. It is also known for being an incredibly beautiful species, with its unusual teal colors setting it apart as much as its size! Unfortunately, this endangered species of butterfly is found exclusively in the Oro Province of Papua New Guinea. The eruption of Mt Lamington in 1951 destroyed a great deal of the butterfly’s habitat, and the population is still trying to bounce back.
Did you know?
This butterfly was named after Queen Alexandra of Denmark.
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