Animal：Golden birdwing, the beautiful butterfly
【明報專訊】It's a bird… No, it's a butterfly! It's a butterfly called ''golden birdwing'' (金裳鳳蝶)!
Text and photos: Ocean Park Hong Kong
Among the 245 butterfly species recorded in Hong Kong, the golden birdwing is one of the largest. With a wingspan of up to 16 cm, the golden birdwing looks like a small bird from a distance. It is also a very beautiful species. It has a red head and chest. Its forewing is black, while its hindwings are golden yellow with black veins.
An Iconic local species
This charming butterfly can be found in tropical and subtropical places, ranging from northern India to Southeast Asia. In Hong Kong, the species is rarely found. But where suitable host plants are distributed, golden birdwings may make appearances. The places in Hong Kong to spot them include some country parks, and Ocean Park!
What kind of host plants attract golden birdwings? There is a very special kind of climbing vine called Indian birthwort (印度馬兜鈴), which is native to Hong Kong. These vines give out a special scent, which attracts female golden birdwings to lay eggs on their stems and leaves.
A protected insect
Butterflies and plants have a close ecological relationship. Golden birdwings are no exception. Indian birthwort offers a home and a crucial food supply to the caterpillars, which grow up and diligently help to disperse pollen as they feed on the nectar of other plants.
In Hong Kong, golden birdwing butterfly is under legal protection. The trade and possession of these butterflies is illegal here. In fact, the golden birdwing is one of the species of insects which are legally protected in Hong Kong.
It is very important not to disturb wildlife. For example, we should not try to catch any wild butterflies. We should also protect plants so that our wonderful ecology is conserved.
Butterfly garden at Ocean Park
Ocean Park is doing a lot of work to help out, and there have been sightings and even breeding records of golden birdwings. With a special location next to Brick Hill (南朗山), where many animals and plants can be found, Ocean Park is adding to local biodiversity by creating an eco-friendly butterfly garden. This garden is filled with nectar plants that provide food for golden birdwings, other butterflies and insects. It is not only a sustainable home for these exquisite creatures, but also a peaceful place amidst the city.
Visit the Park and spend time in the butterfly garden. Perhaps you might spot a golden birdwing or two, if you are in luck!
[Smarties' Power English 第290期]
