Queen Alexandra's birdwing is endangered, with threats that include habitat loss and illegal collection.
Asked by: Terry Croft, Slough
Queen Alexandra’s birdwing butterfly, which is only found in 100km2 of rainforest in Papua New Guinea. The females are bigger than the males and have a wingspan of 25cm and an 8cm-long body. The Hercules moth, found in New Guinea and northern Australia, is slightly larger, with a 27cm wingspan and the largest wing area of any living insect.
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun facts.
Luis trained as a zoologist, but now works as a science and technology educator. In his spare time he builds 3D-printed robots, in the hope that he will be spared when the revolution inevitably comes.
Subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine and try 3 issues for just $9.95
Discover our latest special editions covering a range of fascinating topics from the latest scientific discoveries to the big ideas explained.
Listen to some of the brightest names in science and technology talk about the ideas and breakthroughs shaping our world.
By entering your details, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions and privacy policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.