A Guide to Butterflies of Borneo

Butterflies have long been admired for their beauty and ecological importance. Borneo, known for its rich biodiversity, is home to over 960 butterfly species, with 81 species unique to the island.

Among the notable butterflies found in Borneo is Malaysia’s national butterfly, the Rajah Brooke’s Birdwing (Trogonoptera brookiana), discovered by Sir Alfred Russel Wallace and named after James Brooke, the Rajah of Sarawak from 1841 to 1868. The Kinabalu Birdwing (Troides andromache) is also of significance as Sabah’s state butterfly, a distinction declared by the State Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment in October 2023. This declaration illustrates the state government’s dedication to conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable nature tourism. Borneo is a haven of unparalleled biodiversity, showcasing a vast array of flora and fauna, including numerous exclusive butterfly species.

This pictorial guide features 158 captivating and inspiring butterfly species and three subspecies, aiming to raise awareness and highlight the remarkable diversity of tropical butterflies, from large and exotic specimens to those commonly found in Borneo.