The exotic, elegant, and graceful birdwing: O.paradisea

[trehopr1]

This species has always been for me a long-time running favorite for it's incredible extravagance. Only recently, in the last 5 months was I finally able to secure 2 fine male specimens from a collection being parted out. They had been in ownership for 40 years and were amongst the man's favorite specimens. Declining health prompted the sale so the collection would not fall into neglect. I am proud to be the second owner and will enjoy their everyday presence for as long as I am healthy.

Here is a photo of my second male of Ornithoptera paradisea arfakensis.



I realize of coarse that many folks have this item in their collection and some might have several. But, still and all it remains a treasure to own by all accounts, is delicate to work with (preparation-wise), and still fetches somewhat stiff pricing for truly nice examples...

If any other hobbyists out there care to share with us your specimen photo's or drawers  of this marvelous butterfly than I welcome them.














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[Paul K]

This is also my favourite species from all Ornithoptera! I purchased one pair of O.p.arfakensis about 15 years ago when I wanted to collect birdwings.
I sadly stopped buying them but I enjoy from time to time beauty of those few specimens I have in My collection.

I noticed that you support the tails with this clear plastic, I did glue to underside fine, black brush hair to support them as they always tend to drop.

[trehopr1]

Actually Paul, both of my acquired males had their tails supported in the previous collection. Upon removal from the drawer the tails stayed flat. Once home I placed clear plastic strips underneath them just in case they might curl with time. I had a few sheets of clear X-ray film lying about so I thought -- hey why not... (better than paper or cardboard).

[Paul K]

Mar 24, 2020 6:01:04 GMT trehopr1 said:

Actually Paul, both of my acquired males had their tails supported in the previous collection. Upon removal from the drawer the tails stayed flat. Once home I placed clear plastic strips underneath them just in case they might curl with time. I had a few sheets of clear X-ray film lying about so I thought -- hey why not... (better than paper or cardboard).

It is a good idea you did. Glueing a hair under is always risky that the tail will stick around hair and will look unnatural.
Mine got curled down/dropped twice so I glued them.

Paul