Beauty of the Birdwings Begins

Big, Beautiful, But in Danger.

Birdwing butterflies include some of the largest butterflies in the world, with some species reaching up to one foot in length in wingspan. Birdwings are also recognized for their beautiful and unique coloration, like the male Common Green Birdwing (Ornithoptera priamus), which have bright green wings that contrast against a velvety black outline. While their aposematic coloration is a danger signal to most predators, unfortunately, it also draws in the most menacing apex predators – human poachers. Their breathtakingly large size and colorful patterning seem to defy nature, making them a highly sought-after animal as part of the illegal trade. 

What do you think of when you think of the illegal wildlife trade? Probably, images of tiger pelts or elephant tusks popped into your head. However, many invertebrates, like scorpions and butterflies, are also negatively impacted by this underground multi-billion-dollar business. In an effort to protect them, all species of Birdwing are listed under CITES, an international treaty that regulates the trading of vulnerable animals across borders. However, this is not enough to stop the illegal actions of poachers who will stop at nothing to steal these beautiful butterflies from their homes. 

Are you wondering how to support our fragile invertebrate jewels? 

• Grow native plants! Habitat restoration helps keep wild invertebrate populations healthy and resilient.
• Be a scientist! Join community science efforts in your area to help identify and research at-risk species
• Support sustainable wildlife-based economies like butterfly farms! By visiting Butterfly Pavilion, you’re supporting conservation-forward projects around the world and reducing human-nature conflict.
• Participate in education and awareness about the importance of affected animals and the negative impacts of the illegal trade. By visiting today, or by sharing what you’ve learned with friends and family, you’ve played a vital role in invertebrate conservation!

Butterfly Pavilion always advocates for the protection of Tiny Giants, and that includes Birdwings. As of January 7, we have introduced Common Green Birdwings into our butterfly conservatory, Wings of the Tropics (WOTT). As the name suggests, these butterflies can sometimes resemble small birds due to their unusual shape and bird-like movements, and are sure to stand out among the thousands of butterflies in the conservatory. Not only does this experience offer a rare opportunity to see these amazing animals up close, but it also raises awareness about the troubles they face in the wild, including poaching, habitat loss, and climate change.   

AZA-accredited zoos, like Butterfly Pavilion, are leaders in the protection of animals. In addition to field conservation projects, captive breeding, and public education, animals receive the highest quality of care during their stay at our zoo. Having these ambassador Birdwings in WOTT helps Butterfly Pavilion’s mission to educate the public about the importance of wild invertebrate populations and biodiversity around the world.

Are you interested in seeing some of the largest butterflies in the world and learning more about their conservation? You can learn more and purchase tickets here!