Grey Pansy (Junonia atlites atlites)

Family : Nymphalidae
Genus : Junonia
Species : J. atlites
Wingspan         : 55-65 mm
Local host plant: Chinese Violet (Asystasia gangetica)

Location : Divulapitiya, Western province, Sri Lanka.
Camera : Nikon D3100 with 18-55mm lens

Grey Pansy

Grey Pansy (Junonia atlites), is a member of family Nymphalidae (Brush-footed butterflies) found in South Asia. In Sri Lanka, it is common in wet zone both in urban areas and forests.

Grey Pansy basking

                   

On upperside, both forewing and hindwing have brown submarginal lines. Underside of both male and female butterflies is lighter than the upperside. 

Grey pansies have distinct appearance in wet and dry seasons. The markings on underside in wet-season are usually darker than dry season. In dry season, markings on underside are barely visible.

Grey Pansy

It is very common to find the Grey Pansy butterfly basking with fully opened wings, in morning sunlight. It returns to selected perches repeatedly and stay for more or less than 10-15 minutes if not interrupted. It is very easy to take photographs of them at this moment.

Similar to many other butterfly species, Grey Pansy's favorite nectar plants are; Gada-pana/ Rata Hinguru (Lantana camara), ata pethiya and Balu nakuta (blue snakeweed) [left to right]. They often visit the same nectar plant repeatedly.

Grey pansy on its favorite nectar plants

A mating pair of Grey Pansy

Grey Pansy mating pair

It was observed that the male and female butterflies open and close their wings consecutively while mating. Afterwards the female butterfly lay eggs on the host plant; Chinese Violet (Asystasia gangetica).

Survivors

I found these two survived butterflies, first one was after a heavy rain and the other one may be attacked by a predator.