The Common Three Ring is a species of Satyrinae that is drab and ‘unattractive’ to most observers.  Indeed photographers tend to give this low-profile species a miss, as they chase after more attractive butterflies to shoot.  The Common Three Ring is brown above, with orange ringed black ocelli on the fore and hind wings.  The Common English name refers to the number of rings on the underside of the hindwings only.  The large black ocelli on the forewing is not counted. 

The caterpillars of the species feed on grasses and has a surprisingly long life history for such a common butterfly.  The species is usualyl found flying at low level, not more than a few feet above the ground in grassy open areas.  In the early morning hours, individuals have been observed to open their wings flat to sunbathe. 

Read all about it at the Butterflies of Singapore BLOG.

The Malayan (Megisba malaya sikkima) is a small butterfly resembling a Common Hedge Blue, but with a weaker erratic flight.  The upperside is dark brown above, with the undersides a pale white with black spots and markings like the Common Hedge Blue.  The hindwing is tailed.  The species was not recorded in the C&P4 checklist as extant in Singapore.  It was first discovered in the late 90’s.

The distribution of the Malayan is rather widespread, and where it occurs, individuals can be seen for several days.  It has been observed both in the forested areas of Singapore’s nature reserves, as well as at urban parks and gardens.  It is also known to puddle at damp sponts on forest paths and tracks.  Here, Horace Tan records the early stages of the Malayan, where it feeds on the flowers of the host plant. 

Read all about it at the Butterflies of Singapore BLOG.