Description
The Psyche is a small and delicate butterfly. It is usually seen fluttering feebly, close to the ground, stopping only to feed on flowers. It's favourite flower is the white bloom of the Common Asystasia (Asystasia intrusa). The upperside is white, with a black tipped apex and a black oblong subapical spot. The underside carries greenish lines and streaks.

Habitat & Habits
The Psyche is relatively common throughout Singapore, although it makes its appearance once in a while in the most unlikely places. It is more commonly seen at the fringes of the forested areas in Mandai. Occasionally, individuals are encountered deep in the Nature Reserves.

Other Observations
When observing this feeble flying butterfly, one has to be extremely patient to wait for it to alight to feed on a flower, or to take an occasional rest on a nearby leaf. Though it has a weak flight, it can go on flying for long periods of time without taking a rest stop - butterfly photographers will find it a challenge to take a shot of this butterfly!

Early Stages
Refer to the ButterflyCircle's blog article - The Life History of the Psyche.

Further Reading
Butterfly of the Month - December 2008