 This
Nymphalid (related to the Brush-footed butterflies of the West) is one
of the four Pansies found in Singapore. The Peacock Pansy derives its common
name from the prominent spots on its wings. It can be found gliding in
sunlit grassy plains on the forest edges. It is not as common as
in the past, where the species can be found in the company of the Blue
Pansy in suburban gardens and open grassy patches. This may be due
to the widespread spraying of insecticides to get rid of mosquitoes in
these areas.  Today,
most observations of the Pansies are in the nature reserves and outlying
areas like Pulau Ubin. However, with ongoing development, it will
be a matter of time before these species become very rare.
The butterfly has a bright orange
upperside with prominent eyespots on the hindwings. The undersides
are somewhat paler, but with the eyespots still rather prominent. |
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