|
| Popondetta, PNG; 10/77. Photo donated H Fujumi form atavus (typical male gas no gold spots) |
|
| Popondetta, PNG; Sept 1966 Leg Robert Aronheim |
|
| PNG 10/71, female |
Endangered and listed as appendix I
in CITES, Alexandria'a birdwing is the largest butterfly known and is found
in only a few localities in Papua New Guinea, flying in primary rain
forest at canopy level. It is a lowland species and not found much above
700 meters elevation. Efforts may be underway to breed this magnificent
insect, but its rarity and the need for gigantic flight cages makes this
difficult. It has been suggested that bred specimens be sold by the Papuan
government to finance conservation efforts, but this would require relisting
it under appendix II and more research on its life history.