Ancistroides nigrita maura (Chocolate Demon)

The Chocolate Demon is a predominantly brown and unmarked butterfly above and below, with a paler band on the marginal areas of the undersides of both wings.   It is common where its host plants are found.  This shot, taken at the Mandai Orchid Gardens in Singapore, shows the Chocolate Demon feeding on the flower of the Torch Ginger (Nicolaia elatior).  The caterpillar stage of this species feeds on the leaves of the Torch Ginger, usually hiding itself by folding the edges of the leaves to create a safe sanctuary from predators whilst it feeds. The butterfly has the usual skipping flight and often stops to rest in the Hesperiidae fashion - forewings held at a 45 degree angle to the body and hindwings open flat.  A unique feature of this species is the exceptionally long proboscis.  In the picture, the extended proboscis can be seen reaching far into the flower to get at the nectar.

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