The Richmond birdwing butterfly, the largest subtropical butterfly in Australia, is closely related to several other birdwings from northern Queensland and New Guinea. It is protected in Queensland, where it is classified as a threatened species at risk of extinction.
Richmond birdwing butterfly populations have declined in Queensland since the 1920s following the loss and fragmentation of their habitats, mainly rainforests. Clearing and burning of understorey vegetation, invasion of riparian native vegetation by weeds, and mining of rainforest valleys for volcanic rocks are ongoing threats.
The RBCN hopes to recover the vulnerable Richmond birdwing butterfly and its essential lowland food plant, the birdwing butterfly vine, across this butterfly’s natural ranges. We aim to do this by:
- rehabilitating habitat corridors between existing fragmented populations and extending these corridors into areas where this beautiful butterfly has disappeared
- working with state and local governments to implement conservation projects, develop programs and support communities in the restoration of habitat
- educating communities and raising awareness of the importance of the birdwing butterfly via workshops on the conservation and biology of the butterfly and the propagation and planting of its food vines
- partnering with numerous landcare and habitat rehabilitation groups to establish key vine planting sites.
For more information via the Wildlife Queensland website – butterflies
