Wallace’s Golden Birdwing (Ornithoptera croesus)
The Wallace’s Golden Birdwing, also known as the Wallace Butterfly, is a large, vibrantly-colored butterfly found in a very limited region in Indonesia. Named after the British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, this species is celebrated for its striking beauty and significant scientific value. Despite its captivating appearance, the Wallace’s Golden Birdwing faces the threat of extinction, classified as ‘Endangered’ (EN) by the IUCN 2.3.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Papilionidae
- Genus: Ornithoptera
- Common names: Wallace Butterfly
- Scientific Name: Ornithoptera croesus
Overview
Endemic to Indonesia’s northern part of the Maluku Islands (Moluccan Islands), the Wallace’s Golden Birdwing inhabits wet lowland environments, including swamps. There are six local subspecies, each contributing to the butterfly’s overall diversity. One of the most notable features of this species is the size difference between males and females, with females being conspicuously larger. The declining population of this butterfly underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect its habitat and ensure its survival.
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The appearance of the larva of Wallace’s Golden Birdwing has not been well documented. However, it is likely that the caterpillar is brown with a few rows of dark spines. As with many butterfly species, the caterpillars probably feed on the leaves of their host plants, helping them to grow and develop into pupae.
Pupa
The pupa of the Wallace’s Golden Birdwing has also not been extensively studied. Typically, the pupa attaches itself to the stem of its host plant, where it remains for several weeks. During this time, the transformation from pupa to adult butterfly occurs, culminating in the emergence of the butterfly.
Adult Butterfly
Sexual Dimorphism: Sexual dimorphism is strongly present in this species. Females are significantly larger than males, and their coloration and patterns differ.
Color and Appearance:
Males: When the wings are open, the male butterflies display black forewings with a leading edge that is either red or orange, and a longish, black odor-spot. The hindwings are red or orange with a few golden spots at the leading edge, with the entire edge being black along with several small golden and black spots at the outer edge.
When the wings are closed, the forewings show a black coloration with some green spots, while the hindwings display a golden color with a chain of black spots by the outer edge and a network of black venation.
Females: The base color of the dorsal side is dark brown with a few small white spots on the forewings and large yellow marks on the hindwings. The ventral side is a fainter copy of the dorsal side.
Average Wingspan: The average wingspan ranges from 13 to 19 cm, with females generally on the larger end of this spectrum.
Flight Pattern: The flight pattern of the Wallace’s Golden Birdwing is slow and erratic, making it a distinctive sight as it moves through its habitat.
Lifespan: While specific lifespan data is scarce, most birdwing butterflies typically live for a few weeks to a couple of months as adults, depending on environmental conditions.
Mating Behavior: Males are known to patrol territories in search of females, engaging in courtship displays that include flying in a particular pattern to attract mates.
Eggs
The eggs of Wallace’s Golden Birdwing are mostly laid on the leaves of Pararistolochia species, the primary host plants for the caterpillars. These plants provide the necessary nutrients for the larvae to thrive.
Quick Facts |
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| Distribution | Indonesia’s northern part of the Maluku Islands (Moluccan Islands) |
| Habitat | Wet lowland environments including swamps |
| Host Plants | Species belonging to the genus Pararistolochia |
| Adult Diet | Flower nectar |
How to Identify Wallace’s Golden Birdwing?
Identifying Wallace’s Golden Birdwing involves observing several key features. Males can be recognized by their vibrant black, red, and orange coloration with golden spots, while females exhibit a darker brown with white and yellow markings. The size difference is also a notable characteristic, with females being larger. Look for their erratic flight pattern in wet lowland areas, especially around swamps. If you spot a butterfly laying eggs on Pararistolochia leaves or see caterpillars with brown bodies and dark spines, you may have found this endangered species. Their strong sexual dimorphism and specific habitat preferences make them distinguishable from other butterflies in the region.
Did You Know?
- In his 1869 scientific-expedition chronicle, ‘The Malay Archipelago,’ Alfred Russel Wallace wrote that, when he first saw this butterfly, he almost fainted with its ‘glorious’ beauty and had a headache the rest of the day.
- Another interesting fact is that the species’ name, ‘Birdwing,’ comes from their bird-like flight pattern and large wingspan, making them one of the most remarkable butterflies in the world.
Conclusion
The Wallace’s Golden Birdwing is not just a butterfly but a symbol of natural beauty and scientific wonder. Its endangered status highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect its habitat. By learning more about this remarkable species, we can appreciate the biodiversity of our planet and the need to preserve it for future generations.
Wallace’s Golden Birdwing Pictures
Scientific Classification
- Family: Papilionidae
- Genus: Ornithoptera
- Common names: Wallace Butterfly
- Scientific Name: Ornithoptera croesus
Dr. James Watuwa on December 27, 2018.
Butterfly Team
