🐦 FlyingCare difficulty: AdvancedLegal complexity: High — restricted in many states
Queen Alexandra's birdwing
Ornithoptera alexandrae
Queen Alexandra's birdwing is the largest butterfly in the world, restricted to a small area of rainforest in Papua New Guinea. Endangered by habitat loss and once threatened by collectors, it is strictly protected and depends on specific host vines.
Educational only. KinStation content is reviewed by licensed veterinarians but cannot replace an in-person exam. Always consult a licensed veterinarian or board-certified specialist for diagnosis, treatment, or any decision affecting your pet's health.
🩺 Need expert help with your queen alexandra's birdwing?
Connect with a specialist near you or ask a licensed vet — never substitute online guidance for hands-on care in an emergency.
Quick facts
| Size | The world's largest butterfly; female wingspan up to ~28 cm. |
| Lifespan | 1 years |
| Native region | Oro Province, Papua New Guinea |
| Climate | 🌴 Tropical |
| Genus | Ornithoptera |
Habitat & enclosure
Found only in lowland and lower-montane rainforest of Oro Province, where its caterpillars feed on particular pipevines. Logging, oil-palm conversion, and a volcanic eruption have reduced its limited habitat. It is strictly protected and CITES Appendix I; commercial trade is banned. This profile is conservation/education only.
Diet
Caterpillars feed on toxic Aristolochia (pipevine) species, sequestering compounds that make them and the adults distasteful to predators. Adults nectar on rainforest flowers high in the canopy.
Behavior & temperament
Females are far larger than the iridescent males and fly high in the canopy, making the species hard to observe. Conservation focuses on protecting and restoring its specific rainforest habitat and host-vine populations.
Reviewed and signed off by: KinStation Editorial — conservation profile (pending DVM/biologist review)