Junonia hedonia ida (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.