Palawan Birdwing by Ken _Gilliland
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
This is one of the largest butterflies in the world with a wingspan of 7.1–7.5 inches (18–19 cm). It is endemic to Palawan in the Philippines and is found in woodlands. It tends to avoid open spaces. This butterfly can congregate in large numbers along the riverbanks to drink.
The male has small metallic green triangle markings on wings. A blue sheen runs from the base of the wing upward meeting the metallic green halfway discally. The female is brown with tan markings following the veins. There is a faint blue and green sheen on the base of the forewing and center of the hind wing. The female is also larger than the male.
They feed on the Aristolochia vine (birthwort, pipevine, Dutchman's pipe). This butterfly, which is part of the Swallowtail family, is considerable "Vulnerable" to extinction. Both habitat destruction and over zealous butterfly collectors are factors. This species is included in CITES Appendix II, restricting international export to those who have been granted a permit.

Comments (3)
These are stunning butterflies & your setting is perfect!
Fantastic work!
They look spectacular. Shame they are an endangered species Ken!