The sexes are similar though the male is
slightly smaller and darker in color. The upperside is a
uniform dark brown and slightly transparent allowing the
broad white band of the underside to show though
faintly. The sex brand on the forewing is a well defined
fold with tufts of fine hairs and is located on the
upperside above vein 1b. On the upper side of the hind
wing, there are also 2 groups of long tufts of hair, one
on either side of the median vein. The wet season form
is darker, has larger eye-spots, more prominent silvery
rings and a wider white median band. The band is
yellowish white in the dry season form.
It is a very common butterfly that occurs from sea level
to 5000 feet elevation. It is found year round in many
diverse habitats. The only requirement is grass and some
tree cover.
Unlike most other satyrs, it is not averse to full sun
and may be seen out in the open. However, it prefers to
search for mates and food in dappled light and is most
frequently seen flying close to the ground under trees
and shrubs. Its flight is a series of zigzagging hops.
It settles down on fallen fruit readily to feed on the
fermenting juices. It is perhaps the first satyr to be
seen at rubbish dumps with kitchen refuse. Once settled,
it opens and closes its wings quickly now and again. It
is not shy and may be approached quite closely. |
