DEATH

Yes, when I went back the next day, I realized that the Common Birdwing pupa was dead. Just look at the decapitated carcass left on the Aristolochia acuminata.

In addition, the Common Rose pupa was nowhere to be seen.

What was obvious was that some pruning was done and some of the branches were removed. In the process, the unsuspecting worker might have ripped the Common Birdwing pupa into two and remove the Common Rose pupa without their knowledge.

Sigh, it was a sad day.

AUSTRALIA BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

It was drizzling when we reached the ABS at Cairns. We were received by its founder Paul Wright who showed us around the attraction.

The 3rd photo shows the Cairns Birdwing butterfly that is different from our very own Common Birdwing butterfly. The colouration on the underside of the wings looked interesting compared to the yellow on our local butterfly.

Their enclosure showcases about 6-8 species at any one time. In addition, they do not believe in having nectar plants in their enclosure. Hence, they rely on nectar solution to feed their butterflies.

They have an elaborate laboratory setup, which is something that we lack at our Butterfly Garden. Their staff do not physically touched the butterflies or their caterpillars and you can see them meticulously transferring the caterpillars from petri dish to petri dish etc.

They also have a separate showroom displaying various pin-up samples of butterflies, which is something that we don't want at our Butterfly Garden.