Trogonoptera brookiana

The Rajah Brooke's birdwing is a breathtaking butterfly species inhabiting the rainforests of the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Natuna, Sumatra, and nearby smaller islands. Discovered by Alfred Russel Wallace in 1855, this butterfly was named in honor of James Brooke, the Rajah of Sarawak. It also holds the prestigious title of the national butterfly of Malaysia.

The Rajah Brooke's birdwing exhibits particular preferences in its diet. As caterpillars, they feed on plants such as *Aristolochia acuminata* and *A. foveolata*. Upon maturing into adults, they favor nectar from flowers, notably from the genus *Bauhinia*.

Due to its exquisite beauty and ecological importance, the Rajah Brooke's birdwing is protected under Appendix II of CITES. This designation means that international export of the species is regulated and requires special permits.

In terms of appearance, these butterflies are exceptionally striking. Males showcase predominantly black wings embellished with vivid electric-green markings and have a wingspan ranging from 15 to 17 cm. They display more green on their hindwings compared to the closely related Palawan birdwing. Females, conversely, have browner wings with distinctive white flashes at the tips and base. Both sexes possess a red head and a black body adorned with red markings.

The Rajah Brooke's birdwing belongs to the genus *Trogonoptera* and includes subspecies such as *Trogonoptera brookiana brookiana* and *Trogonoptera brookiana toshikii*. The species exhibits a remarkable variety of forms and subspecies, underscoring its incredible diversity.