re found in the trunks of decayed trees, in old tables, chairs, &c. Some live and undergo their change among hay, dried leaves, collections of dried plants, and substances of a similar nature.

.Minus pectinicornis is readily distinguished by its feathered antenna. It is pn$ucccl from a worm that is lodged in wood and the trunks of trees, especially the willow, where it makes deep, round holes, turns to a winged insect, takes flight, and rests upon flowers.

Ftinus pertinax has habits similar to his fellows. When caught, he draws back his head and legs, shams death, and will not move, even though pricked, unless compelled to it by heat.

Ptinus atidicus belongs to this genus, and
though, from its brown colour and minute size,
it often eludes the search, has been an object
of terror to thousands, from their superstitious
fears. Towards the latter end of spring, this
little animal commences his alarm, which is
only a call to his mate, made by beating on
any hard substance, with the shield or fore-part
of his head. This sound, so harmless in itself,
is construed by the vulgar to be an omen of
approaching dissolution, it is curious to ob
serve, that it generally beats seven, nine,, or
lcven strokes, in pretty quick succession, re
peating