| Leptosia nina malayana (Psyche) |
 The
Psyche is a small and delicate butterfly. It is usually seen fluttering
feebly, close to the ground, stopping only to feed on flowers. A
favourite flower is the white bloom of the Common Asystasia (Asystasia
intrusa). The upperside is white, with a black tipped apex and
a black oblong subapical spot. The underside carries greenish lines
and streaks.
The caterpillar of this species is known to feed on Capparis heyneana and Crateva religiosa both cultivated plants. The Psyche is relatively common throughout Singapore, although it makes its appearance once in a while in the most unlikely of places. It is more commonly seen at the fringes of the forested areas in Mandai. Occasionally, individuals are encountered deep in the Nature Reserves. 
When observing this feeble flying butterfly, one has to be extremely patient to wait for it to alight to feed on a flower, or to take an occasional rest on a nearby leaf. Though it has a weak flight, it can go on flying for long periods of time without taking a rest stop - butterfly photographers will find it a challenge to take a shot of this butterfly! |
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