Junonia hedonia ida (Chocolate Pansy) 

Chocolate Pansy

The Chocolate Pansy is rather common in Singapore, and occasionally several individuals are observed frolicking in bright sunny grassy spots.  It can be found in the nature reserves as well as in urban and suburban areas.

This species is found in Singapore and southern Johore only, being replaced by the drab-coloured Junonia iphita horsfieldi (Chocolate Soldier) in most parts of Malaysia.

The upperside of the Chocolate Pansy is dark reddish brown with a series of prominent reddish ocelli on the hindwing.  The butterfly flies in the usual gliding fashion of the Junonia species and can be observed basking in the sun with its wings opened flat as shown in the photo.
 
 
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