Known commonly as Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing, Ornithoptera alexandrae is the largest butterfly on Earth. This spectacular insect is not just a marvel of size but a symbol of the fragile biodiversity found in the rainforests of Papua New Guinea. First discovered in 1906 by naturalist Albert Stewart Meek (who famously had to use a shotgun to bring down a specimen from the high canopy), it remains one of the most sought-after and endangered species in the world.
Continue reading The Queen of the Canopy: A Guide to Ornithoptera alexandraeTag Archives: Queen Alexandra’s Birdwing
The Regal Lineage: Tracing the History of Birdwing Butterflies (Ornithoptera)
Among the most magnificent and sought-after insects on Earth, the birdwing butterflies of the genus Ornithoptera stand as living jewels. Renowned for their immense size, often iridescent coloration, and graceful flight, these butterflies have captivated naturalists, collectors, and conservationists for centuries. Their history is not just a tale of scientific discovery but also one intertwined with human exploration, evolving understanding, and increasingly, urgent conservation efforts.
Continue reading The Regal Lineage: Tracing the History of Birdwing Butterflies (Ornithoptera)

