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INDEX TO ENTOMOLOGY.

Page.

1st, Order, COLE®FTERA 2'7

Genera, Page.

st. 'caraba us .... 27 Hercules 28 Goliah ... ib• ;Pose=chafer ib. Dung-beetle .. 29 Cockchafer ,,.. ii).

2d. Lucanus 0 Stag-beetle .... ib.

d. Dermestes 31

lardarius ib.

ib.

°°--•°--A 7ectini.

cornis

pc rtinax

~--~-- fatlC icus

5th. H ster

6th. Gyrinus... m ... .

~---d- natator 7th, Pauses

8th. Byrrhus

9th. Silpha

10th. Cassida

11th. Coccinella

Lady-bird .. 12th. Chrysonzela ....

----- ---poplar 33

13th, Hispa ..

14th. _ruches

15th. (Jurculio Nut-weevil Corn-weevil . Palm-weevil . . Curculio Impe

rialis, or Dia

mond-beetle -~--- - regalis

argen

atus . ®

16th, ..4ttelabus .... 41 17th. Ccrarnby ib.

longi

2 .

Cerambyx da

micor nls at). Musk-beetle .. 2b.

18th .Leptura ... 42

arcuata it).

19th. Necydalis it). -- coeru

lea
20th. .Lamp?jris . ,•.

Glow-worm . .

91 st. ('nntharis

- bi pus

tulata

22d, Elater

- --~--- noctilu

cus

---~-- obsc u r u s 23d. Cicindela

pestris ib.

24th. Buprestis 46

g C g a 11

tea it).

25th, Dytiscus 48

nabs ib. 26th. Hzjdrophi/us .. 49

crepi

tans it).

28th. Tenebrio it).

-moht.or b.

menus

4th. Ptinus

ib. 33 ib zb. 34 it), ib. 35 ib. ib. 37

ib, ib, it). 44

2b. ib.

45 ib, ib.

ill. it). it). 39 it).

40 i1>.

ceus

27th. Cashes

it). 50

29th. , e1o

...

VIII

Page.

39th. Memo ~~'~ -^ ao

---pmscum

bau ... ~~' 51

Spanishfly ..~ ib. 30th. Mordellu ..~. ik

Page.

31st omp»ylzvua ~~. @b. ~--~----sou

jor "~~^"~. 52 a2d. Fonrfioola ib.

IND1X.

2d. Order, IIEmuPTERA

Genera 5th. (icuda ^~.~~'~ 1st. Blamw .^~`~^~ 55 !

_--giguoteu. ib. ~ 6th. Notonecta ~,~,

Common Cock

roach .~~.~`

Mantis

ad.

---yrmcaria

56 ib. 57

glauoa

7th. Nepa .~~~.`~~.

--'oinercu~~

----euusma

. ~' .~~ ___.~,_ .

Gryllus .gryllo_

~ra

....

Locust

^^^^~^

Gryllua crista

um ~'~~~

tb./ulgora

laoter

9th

10th. C»vmwes ~~~~~,

alni ..

of the

googy

louo ~..~.' zb. -

m^ sa ik

ib,
7/
Cochineal .~.. ib.

Kermu ~.~.~.

12th. zh,ip» .~.^.~ ib. --~- yhymapmm ib.

---Uomods

8th. cimvr ,..~..~. 8ucr

iii.

fir-tree

11th. cocm'

6m u/

ouuu

.....

3rd. Order, lEPzDoeTERA ~~~~ Butterfly Sphinx, Moth

4th. Order, NEoaOPTERA~.

Genera.

1st. LibcUola

.-~

Dragon Fly

nreua

,-,

2d. Ephemera. May-fly

3L Phr7/goncn ...

4th. He,mermbiua...~ 5th. or

Ant-eater

6th. ammnpo-.~.

7th.

oe ik

94 ii'.

....

mm o/

92 ib. 94

95 97 ib. ib,

5th. Order,

Page.

5th. Order, r YMENOPTERA •. 99

Genera. 4th. Ichneumon .... 104

1st. Cynips, or Gall- 5th. Spltex , . 105

fly 99 -- fig u l us .. 106

Oynips quercus 100 6th. Chrysis 107

Cy ill ps rosy ... 2b. • ignitls.. 2b.

2d. Tent/credo 101 7th. T espy ib.

Turnip-fly ... 102 -crabro .. 109

"I'enthredo 8th. Apis 110

lutea . r... 103 9th. Formica 121

10th. Muti la 124

3d..S`irex • lb.

~ bi gas .... lb.

Genera,

1st. Oestrus, Gad-fly 124 2d. Tipula 130

~ r i v os a . lb.

crocata 131

pha1ae

noides Zb.

132

cameleon ibb

a vermil eo 133 -tenax .. lb. -pen d u la 134

Blow-fly lb.

4th. Tabanus 135

bov i n us lb.

6th. Order, DIPT .RA

Tabanus pluvi

alls
5th. Culex, Gnat....

Mosquito ... 6th. Empis

--~-- I i vida . . 7th. Conops

----- calcitrans 8th. Asitus

9th. Bombilius

10th. Hippobosca • .. .

124

3d. 1Vluscu

eq u i na

135 2b. 137 138 lb. 138

is.

139

is.

ibS

a ``lcularla 140 Sheep-tick .... ib.

7th. Order, APTERA

Genera. Acaru-s coleop

1st, Lepisma 141 tratoru ill ... 156

-v-egetans lb.

Cheese-mite .. 157 7th. .Hydrachna.... 158

143

--- -- polypus 142

2d. Podura lb.

~--- aq u a t l c a, l b.

3d. Terines 143

--~- pulsato

rIus 152

4th. 'ediculus 153

5th. Culex 154

6th.. COWS 155

auto m

nails 156

graphics.... iS. 8th. .Pale-ng um ... is.

. re n i

.form 2ba

Shepherd Spider ' Harvest

9th. AVanea

x amoEX.

9th. Arunma ^ 159 ~---'aiaaemu e, riumom/a .... zmo Armeouquuucu 6b. ----' anbtm`

runea ...^`. 161 ----' uv/cu\u,

yu lb

10th. Scorpion ` 164

11th. Cancer zoa ~___-B'rnar

Page

12th. Mmocolux.... 167

pulex /oa

13th, ooisouo 169

----urmudulo ib.

utiom ib.

14th. .-^ ib.

' for

ficula 170

c~c

tmcu..~ '.. lb.

\sU^Julus lb.

-~--aabulosum. 171

poly.. rhemu ^~ Hi.

due 166 Land Crab ... lb.

Lobster 167

1NTRODUCTK) 'ro

E]\TTO,MOLOG Y.

LETTER 1.

FIWM FELICI4 TO CONSTANCE.

Shrubbery.

DEAR CONSTANCE

N OTIIING but the restoration of your health, could reconcile the prospect of our passing another summer separated from each other. I had fondly promised myself the

pleasure of participating with you in all my
and had planned many agreeable
schemes, none of which can aflbrd inc any
gratification alone. What is a walk, without a
comp 1nion ? or a book, unless there is a friend
to converse with on its contents? in short, it
requires the approbation or kind censure of a
person one loves, to give a zest to every em
:pioymcnt. You were this friend, this censor

B to

to me: now you are gone, whatever I do i flat, tasteless, and solitary. My mother says, the best remedy for the loss of your company, is, to establish a regular correspondence on some particular subject, in which both feel an equal interest ; - and, as we derived so much amusement and advantage, last summer, from the study of Botany, she recommends our continuing that, combined with one still more interesting, because it treats of animated beings; .1 mean Entomology, or the knowledge of

Insects, a pursuit of which she is extremely

fond, and has kindly offered to give me lessons, that I am to communicate to you. I know you will approve this proposal; for, though some inattentive observers have despised the science as trifling and useless, they have cx posed their ignorance by such an opinions Surely, nothing can be more suited to a creature endowed with reason, than to investigate the works of God. Wiiethcr lie turn his attention to the harmonious order of the vast orbs, which are scattered so magnificently through the boundless space; or examine the curious structure of an insect, so minute that it can only be perceived by the assistance of a microscope;-he will find the same wisdom and power, though differently applied, displayed in both The admirable contrivance exerted

in the formation of every class of created ob ,sects, is not to be measured by the magnitude of the thing, but by the harmony of the design with the purpose it is intended to produce. Viewed in this light, the sting of a bee, the wing of a gnat, or the proboscis of a butterfly, call forth as much admiration as the trunk of an elephant. Nor does the formation of the minute parts of Nature, show less power in the artist, than those that astonish by their greatness. The wonders of a world, or the curious mechanism of a common fly, are equally beyond the capability of any being t.o produce, but that Supreme Intelligence who created the universe. Some naturalists consider insects as the least perfect class of animals, because many of them can live a long time after losing those organs that are essential to the existence of the nobler creatures. A caterpillar, for example, will live whets its heart and lungs have been entirely eaten away. If we admit them to be inferior, it seems to consist rather in the narrow limits of their intellectual faculties, than in their conformation, which, like that of all other creatures, discovers such perfection of design, that it is impossible to say in what class of animals it is most conspicuous. The instincts of bees, ants, wasps, and probably of all the other tribes of insects, were we better

2 acquainted

acquainted with them, are complete in thci kind : they cannot err: they are cor paned, by an irresistible impulse, to move without devia tion, in one regular course of action': beyond this, they know nothing; neither lave they, like the larger animals, the capacity of com inunicating with man. An elephant, a horse, or aa dog, understands the signs of its master, and, by patient instruction, may be rendered almost rational; but what pains would instruct a butterfly, or teach it to change its habits ? if they are taken out of their usual situation, they are entirely at a loss, and know not how to extricate themselves from the difficulty; whereas, we know that, in many instances, beasts and birds accommodate themselves to circumstances, which marks discrimination and superiority of intellect. Others, void of re fleclion, regard the numerous tribes of insects as of no use, but as ornaments in the creation 'but every class of beings has its appointed office, and conduces' to the harmony of the wl'i ole,

Insects are of "essential benefit to man in
several ways. Bees prepare 'the most balsamic
conserve from the juices of flowers, which,
without their intervention, would be of no
value; we likewise owe to their labours the
wax that SIiI)plieS us with candles, and answers
many

many other purposes. The cochineal yield

the finest scarlet dye, and the silk-worm con verts. the leaves of the mulberry-tree into silk. The termes, the fieshfly, and many other insects, are employed, in consuming substances that are falling to decay, such as rotten timber, putrid carcasses, &c. and though their task is less pleasing than that of the bee or the silkworm, it is not less important; for the effiuvia from such substances in warm climates, would produce a pestilence, and render the country uninhabitable. But there is mother and an awful office to which these tiny and apparently feeble creatures are appointed, which is that

destruction. A swarm of locusts, extending over a whole country, and consuming every green thing, is as tremendous an instrument iii the hands of Omnipotence, as an earthquake or a volcano. We may remember, that innumerable swarms of flies were sent to the .gyp tians, as one of the signals of divine displea sure, and seem to have been as distressing as most of the other plagues. Dr. Darwin asserts, that the apliis, which is a small insect, commonly called the plantIouse, is so prolific and

so voracious, that, were its numbers not cliccki ed by various enemies, which restrain its In

crease within due bounds, it would starve the whole race of mankind. So you may perceive,

that, though singly, they appear minute, and, as an enemy, contemptible, they are in reality very formidable from their numbers. Thus, some are employed in preparing, some in puri fying, and others in destroying the materials on which they work. rrIeir usefulness is also very important in preserving a due proportion among plants, in consuming what is dead or decayed, and in yielding a large supply of food to other animals; birds and fishes espe cially, of which they are the constant prey.

To those who love to indulge their taste with the view of the most luxurious and elegant

objects, this branch of natural history will at.

ford the most unlimited gratification, from the infinite variety of form and colour, excelled in richness and beauty by no part of nature, not even by the gay tribes of our favourite flowers.

The number of insects is prodigious, and the far greater part of them cannot be seen dis tinctly, without the help of a microscope. Un like other animals which inhabit a single ele merit, air, earth, and water, teem with them: the same insect, in different stages of its exist ence, is at one time an inhabitant of the water, and at another of the air. The changes these creatures undergo, are a source of great variety; for many of them assume several appearances,

xtrernc1y different from one another, in the

ourse

course of their short lives, and successively adopt habits suited to their new state of being. In some species the male differs greatly from the female, which is another cause of variety.

From these general observations, you will agree with me, my dear sister, that a fund of entertainment may be expected from the study of insects, and that it is well calculated to enlarge our ideas of the wisdom and goodness of the mighty Author of Nature

Get your pencils and paints in order; for you will find great amusement, and considerable advantage, from copying the subjects I describe. As I intend to do the same, when we meet we may compare our drawing books together, and correct each other's mistakes. Adieu, till next week, when 1I shall resume the pen, and again assure you, that I am your afli~ctionate sister,

FELICIA.,

LETTER 11.
FELICI4 TO CoNSTANcE.

S/trubhciiy,.

DEAR CONSTANCE,

BEFORE 1 enter into particulars, it will be necessary to point out those peculiarities that distinguish insects from all other animals Linriaus has divided thean imal kingdom into six classes, and comprised, insects in the fifth, ith this single definition: "Flaying two antenna or feelers," which are the horns affixed to the head. But some nattiraliss go further, and describe them by the following marks: They are furnished with several feet, not less than six;. and are destitute of bones, the want of which is supplied lay the hardness of the outer skin, that, like a coat of mail, serves at once the double purpose of defence and supporL

Instead of breathing, as other animals do, by the lungs, they are furnished with pores, or breathing holes, called spiracula, placed along the sides of their bodies, through which they re spire. After showing OU what they have; I must enumerate what they have not: they

have

have no red blood, no brains, no nostrils, no ears nor eye-lids.

It is reasonable to suppose, that with organs so different, their senses also differ materially from those of the larger animals. Some naturalists suppose that they have riot the sense of hearing; but Mr.. arbut, who is an attentive observer, is of a contrary opinion, and relates a curious anecdote in support of his theory, tic observed a large spider in St. James's Park, which had its web on one of the rails, at a cotisiderable distance from the place where a great fly was entangled. Notwithstanding the situation of the two insects was such that the spider could itot see the fly, he perceived the victim the moment he entered the snare, repaired to the spot, and disabled him from escaping; which lie attributes to the SCflSC of hearing. But, as 1 think it possible that the approach of the fly was made known to the spider by the vibration of the thread, as well as by its tones of distress, I am more convinced of the fact lay his inference, that, since it is well known that many insects have the power of uttering sounds, as the large beetle, the bee, the wasp, the gnat, and the fly, we cannot suppose that this power is given without a corresponding capacity in their fellows to understand their meaning. it s undoubtedly the language of their kind, ex

5 prcssiu

pressing pleasure or pain, and understood by
their companions, as is shown by numbers of
bees, or wasps, flying to the assistance of a bro
then in distress, which has been attacked iiear
the hive. Since they have no ears, Mr. Bail ut
conjectures that the antenna arc the scat of
hearing, both from their situation on the head,
and their hollowness, which fits them for flue
conveyance of sounds. If he is right, it is
worth remarking, that, in other animals the
organ of hearing is open, in these it is not so
which is an admirable precaution to preserve
these tender, flexible tubes from being clogged
with dust, to which insects are peculiarly liable.
After all that has been said, it is net i ,room
Mc that these creatures, so essentially difii rent,
from any other class of animated beings, possess
senses of which we have no idea, and that the
antenme are the organs by which one of these
senses is enjoyed. For whatever purpose they
arc designed, they vary in form, size, and
number, according to the wants of the animal.
They are always jointed; and those which be
long to insects that live chiefly in the water, are
shorter than those of such as live on the land,
or soar in the air; the latter of which often
have them very long and slender. Being hoh
low and jointed, they are easily bent in any
direction, and appear to be exquisitely tender
when

when injured. I have already said that their forms are various in different tribes, and for that reason they have been thought the most convenient parts for distinguishing the genera and species of insects; it is therefore necessary to acquaint you with their differences, which I will do as concisely as I can.

Antennw setacew, tapering towards the end. Antenncefi4forrnes, of an equal thickness, like

a thread.

Ant ennce monilformes, resembling a row of

beads.

,Antennce claratw, club-shaped, ending in a knob.

Antenna; f ssiles, the . thick end divided into

several parts..

Antennw pectinatce, feathered along the edge,

like the teeth of a comb.

Antennce barbatce, bearded with fine hairs.

Antennw per foliatce, having joints of a flat,

circular shape, threaded, as it were, by the body of the aiitcnmc,

Besides the antennae, insects are furnished
with palpi, or feelers, which are also jointed,
and are fixed to the mouth: they are generally
four or six in number, and seem to serve the
insect instead of hands, to bring the food to the
mouth,

mouth, and hold it whilst eating. Mr. Barbu supposes they arc the organs of smell, because they arc always in motion; the insect thrusting them continually into every soft substance that lies in its way, apparently to examine whethm it be proper for food. it is possible they may be furnished with nerves, like the snout of the hog, or the bill of the duck, for the same ppOS in the form and disposition of the mouth, Na tare has displayed great variety ; it is mostly placed in the lower part of the head, sometime in the breast in the beetle tribe, a 1(1 others, it has very strong jaws, often notched on tin' inner side, somewhat like teeth, in some, the mouth consists of a tube, or instrument fi.sr suction, sometimes sheathed and guarded by different kthds of appendages. It is rcmark able that the jaws of insects do not meet, like those of quadrupeds and birds, crosswise, but lengthwise. They have also a tongue and palate. But many insects have no tongue, nor do they utter any sound from their mouth: for this purpose some use their feet, others their wings, and others some elastic instrument pecu liar to their kind.

The most curious and surprising part et insects is their eyes, which, in the same crea lure, arc often of several kinds. Besides the two eyes placed on each side of the head, whica

d cserver

lcservc a particular descript ion, many insects have three small, round, brilliant globuics on the crown of the head, called stemmala. The. eyes of most insects, instead of being single, arc composed of a prodigious number of little hemispheres, or round ptot uberances, placed with the utmost regularity and exactness, in lines Crossii)g each other like lattice svork this group is supposed to be a collection of eyes. What wonders does the microscope enable us to behold! My mother has shown me the figure of a candle, multiplied almost to infinity, on the surf=aces of one of these clusters of eyes the beams of light sl.iifting from eye to eye, ac cording as I moved. the candle. Whilst other creatures are obliged to turn their eyes towards the objects they wish to see, thecae have always some or other of their eyes so directed, as to take in the surrounding objects on whichever side they present themselves, Each of these in d ivid ual eyes has a minute, transparent lens and

pupil, through which things appear inverted, as in the human eye, and, when properly

placed, serves the office of a telescope, by

bringing (liStant objects to the sight. Mr.
Leuwmhos k, a celelebrated naturalist, looked
through the eye of an insect, by the assistance
of a microscope, and viewed the steeple of a
church, \vhich was 299 feet high, and 750 feet
from

from the place where he stood; yet lie dis cerned the steeple plainly, though it did not appear bigger than the point of a large needle. He afterwards turned his minute telescope, for so it may justly be called, towards a house, and clearly distinguished the doors and windows, and whether they were open or shut. The same gentleman reckons, iii the two eyes of a dragon fly, 25088 of these minute hemispheres. The pictures of objects seen through these eyes, must be millions of times smaller than those of the same objects painted on the retina of the human eye. There is no doubt that in sects, too small to he clearly seen without a microscope, have eyes contrived to. discern ob jects many thousand times less than themselves; for so the particles of their food must certainly be. Such calculations almost ecced the power of imagination, and are a convincing proof that the exquisite harmony of creation is as visible in the minute, as in the vast objects that surround us.

A fly is the spider's natural prey, and is remarkably cautious and nimble, 'and fre quently comes from above; it was therefore necessary that the spider should tve a quick sight, and the ability of looking upwards, forwards, and sideways, at the same time, espe chilly as she has no neck, arid her head is

fixed.

fixed. Accordingly, she is furnished with eight eyes, curiously adapted, by their situation, to the wants of the animal; two being fixed on the top of the head, that look upwards; two in front, to look forwards; and on each side another pair, one of each points sideways forwards, and the other sideways backwards, so that the insect can see nearly round. The tongues of insects vary in form that of a gnat pierces like a needle, and sucks

1i1 pump, which fits it for drawing blood

whilst those of the butterfly tribes are curled up like the spring of a watch, which the insect can uncurl when it wishes to suck the honey from the bottom of a flower: in some others it is fleshy, but in the fly it is shaped like a tube.

I will now dismiss the head, with its appendages, and proceed to a description of the body, which, in the major part of insects, is divided into the thorax, or upper part, and the abdomen, or lower part. In many of the beetle tribe, the back of the thorax is distinguished by a trian

gular piece, called the scutellum, or escutcheon,

situated towards the lower part of the thorax, and is extended between the wings. `rue under part of the thorax is termed the pectus, or breast, in which a longitudinal line, often pointed at both extremities, called the sternum, 'is placed. The abdomen is composed of rings,

having

having the spiracula, or breathing holes, is them, and the last terminates in the tail.

The members which adhere to the thorax and the abdomen, are the stir, the legs, the halien es, the pectines, and the wings.

The sting is a curious instrument, by which some of them inflict a painful woe ndas I sup pose you have experienced. It consists of two valves, from whence the creature puts forth a rigid bristle, tiitt conveys a very subtle poison.

The legs are geaerally six ; but mites, spiders, scorpions, and crabs, have eight, and sonic others have many more. The first joint; is called femur, or thigh; the second, tibia, or leg; and the third, tarsus, or foot; which con monly consists of several small joints, termi .nating in two hooked claws that form the fbot,

The Italteres resemble two minute bladders, flxcd on a short footstalk, and arc situated, one under each wing : these poisers, as they are often called, are only to be found in the two winged insects, and are supposed to serve as• balances, to keep the fly steady.

The use of the pectines is unknown: they are peculiar to the genus scorpis, the species of which are distinguished by the nunibe of teeth on cacti pecten. They are placed one on each side, between the breast and the qbdomen.

The

The same variety is observable in the wings of insects, as in the other parts; but as Lin neus has founded the orders upon their dis tinctions, and my letter is already extended to

a great length, I shall defer a particular ac

count of them till I write again.

Adieu, dear Constance: learn the lesson I have given you well, and be assured, I am always your very affectionate

LETTER III.

FELICT.A TO CONST4NCE.

Shrubbery

DEAR CONSTANCE,

AS insects are endowed with the various powers of creeping, flying, and swim wing, there is scarcely any place whrc they are not to be found :.--earlh, air, water, and the bodies of the larger animals, teem with theme Until a regular system was invented, their numbers and minuteness presented such inextricable confusjon, as to discourage coy mon industry from the pursuit. The difference of their outward appearance first reduced them into certain divisions, or classes : thus, the early entomologists grouped them into the obvious families of beetles, butterflies, and flies; whilst those of the same class that had four wings, they called bees. No advance was made beyond these general terms, till the immortal Linna3us undertook to reduce the science to a systematic form. He was the man who first instituted natural orders, arranged them iii genera by expressive names, and determined a

vast

vast number of species. He collected, with incredible, pains, the synonymous names of the various authors who had written on the subject, and, above all, added descriptions, and the places where they were to be found. So great were the effects of this union of talents and in dustry, that he increased the number of known insects from two hundred to nearly three thou sand, though this number is not the sixth part of those no known. This vast multitude is included in seven orders.

ORDER 1.

co1eoptera.-Tleis division contains all those insects whose wings are guarded by a pair of strong, horny cases, under which the wings are folded when at rest. rrhese cases are called eytra. The beetle is an example of this order.

ORDER II.

Hemiptera, or half winged.----Tbe upper part 'of the wing-sheaths in this tribe is of a leathery texture, and the lower part a sort of membrane The sheaths of this order cross each other when closed, instead of meeting in a direct line, as in the coleoptera. It comprises all the locusts or grasshoppers with many others.

ORiiEJt

ORDER III.

Lepidoptera, or scaly-winged.--- it consist of butterflies and moths. The powder on the wiugs of these insects has been said to consist of acall feathers ; but more accurate observation shows that they are minute scales, of various shapes and sizes in the different species,_ and eveti in the different parts of the same insect. The prevailing shape,, however, is that of a fan, and they are ranged one over the other, like the tiles of a house.

ORDER IV.

Neuroptera, or nerve-winged.-w-' he insects of this class are remarkable for the strength of their wings, which resemble a net-work of fine wire. rThicy are always four in number. The order is beautifully exemplified in the libellula or dragon-flies.

OItl)ER V

Hyrnenoptera.-lt consists of insects fur nished with four niembranaccous wings, and also with a sting, or something resembling one. ;fake the wasp and the bee for examples.

ORDER VI.

Dtera.-Jt contains those insects that have

two wings only. In this order ranks the corn mon fly, the gnat, and many others.

ORDER VII.

Apiera.-It consists of such insects as are entirely destitute of wings; as spiders, centi tipedes, fleas, and many others.

Lest yot should be led into an error in the beginning of your career, I must inform you of a few deviations from these general rules. Some of the coleopterous insects have no other wings than the horny sheaths called clytra: and there are a few species, in which one sex is winged, and the other without wings; but they must not, on that account, be referred to the seventh order.

From the multitudes of insects that swarm in almost every situation, the ancients adopted the absurd opinion that they were nourished, and brought into life, by the matter in which they are found : thus, they supposed that flesh bred maggots; and dirt, those loathsome insects that are seldom seen but in the retreats of poverty or sloth. The enlightened philosophy of the present day has discarded such an unfiundcd notion, and clearly shown that all animals derive their being from parents of a like nature as themselves. They adopted another error,

coo nti tC(I

confuted likewise by more attentive observa Lion, which might partly be attributed to the want of the microscope: they affirmed that insects had no blood, because it is clear and watery, instead of red. But the circulation of the blood is very visible iii spiders; and espe dally in the common bug, in which the vibra tions and contractions of the arteries are to be plainly discerned.

Animals of a different nature have been con founded with insects, such as snails, several kinds of worms, &c. Those tiny creatures called anitnaicuies, are by some erroneously classed with insects, but in reality belong to the very different tribe of oerrnes, or worm-like animals.

Insects are very short-lived: few of them survive a year, many do not live half that time and the existence of some does not extend beyond a days This law of their nature is not without exceptions: bees, sonic butterflies, and spiders, are said to live a considerable time.

Insects, like other animals, are generally of two sexes, male and female; but amongst such as live in communities, as ants, bees, &c. the

greater number are of neither sex, These

neuters, as they are called, are the slaves or labourers of the family; they build the cells, collect provisions, and perform the whole interior economy.

The

The most surprising circumstance in the history of insects, I have yet to relate. Tue same insect, at different periods of its existence, frequently undergoes several metamorphoses, and assumes forms so various, that it is impossible to be recognised by any person unacquainted with its transformations. You amused yourself, a few summers ago, with keeping silkworms, and may remember, that from a very small, yellow egg, was hatched a small, black worm, which gradually increased to a worm of considerable size, and after casting off its skin three times, became of an elegant, transparent ash-colour, or pale grey: in this state it ceased to eat, and retirg into a corner, began to wrap itself in a covering of fine yellow silk, which proceeded from its mouth. Upon opening this egg-shaped cone of silk what was your surprise, to behold something withinside like a brown bean, instead of the silk-worm; and in about a fortnight your astonishment was redoubled, on perceiving a beautiful white moth burst ford, from the hollow shell of the brown bean. '.This process is a good specimen of the changes of other species.

These transformations are common to all insects, except those of the aptera class, and afford in the different kinds a curious variety

in colour, form, and circumstances. The egg is called the first state, and the insect that is hatched from it, whether caterpillar, worm, maggot, or grub, is denominated the larva; which signifies a mask, because in that state the perfect insect is concealed in another form. The third state corresponds with your brown bean, and is most properly expressed by the term pupa, from its fancied resemblance to a doll wrapped iii swaddling clothes. It was formerly called the chrysalis, or aurelia ; and is still distinguished by different names, as cod, cone, or nymph. The lest change is into the perfect insect, frequently rising from a torpid, inanimate state, to soar in the air, and rove with painted wings from flower to flower. May not these changes be considered an ein 1)1cm of the transitions of mortal men to a glorified existence in the mansions of bliss?

The larva of most insects is extremely voracious, but in the perfect state some eat nothing, others subsist on the juice of fruit or flowers, which they extract with a proboscis or a long tongue this, when at rest, is curled up in a spiral. form, like the spring of a watch. Vari otis other food is eaten by different tribes, as we shall perceive in the progress of our ex imioation of the properties of each. Variety appears to be a standing law of nature: the

eggs,

eggs, the manner of disposing of them, the larv, the pupa-differ as much in form and habits as the perfect insect. Thus, you see,, my dear sister, chat a wide field this pursuit opens to the gratification of our taste, and the exercise of our pencils; iiot to mention a benefit of a much higher nature, that of leading us to a more intimate knowledge of the exquisite wisdom and goodness of the great Creator, displayed as eminently in these minute objects, as in those stupendous effects of his omnipo fence, that astonish the most careless beholder, Whatever part of His works lies within the reach of our comprehension, it presents the same proofs of beauty, order, and harmony. The organization of the smallest insect is suited

n every member to the purpose fbr which it

is designed ; and, what is a further mark of divine goodness, contributes to the comfort and enjoyment of the animal: for all creatures seem

car med for a, degree of happiness, consistent with their nature; so that the if of existencq

is a diffusion of enjoyment, and mark

voleuce of the source from whence it flows.

Beauty is a quality that often ensures kind ucss to its possessor ; whilst, on the other band, ugliness exposes its owner to contempt and ill 4reatmcnt. The variegated bu~ terfl, daz zling the eye with its vivid colours, is an objeit

the tend

'of fondness and admiration; whilst the spider is stamped to death, without remorse or sympathy with its sufferings, merely because we attach an idea of deformity to its appearance, or from an affectation of aversion, which, in a sensible

woman, is truly ridiculous. Some insects, I

allow, must be destroyed; but let it be done with the least pain and the greatest expedition possible. Children should be induced to show tenderness to every thing that breathes; and if taught to admire, instead of being suffered to torment, insects that are within their reach, early lessons of humanity might he implanted, that would have a very beneficial effect on the character of the future man.

If you receive pleasure from my correspondence, I shall gladly resume the jr and frequently repeat the assurance, that I am, most aflcctionately, yours,

FELICI. .

LETTER IV.
FELICIA TO GONSTANCE.

'rubber j.

DEAR SISTEIt,

hITHERTO my pen has been employed in pointing out the general characteristics of the insect tribes; but, in order to obtain that degree of knowledge, which shall render our walks interesting, by enabling 'us to recognise our acquaint thce in the various inhabitants of every plant and shrub, I must descend to particulars, and introduce to your notice one individual at least of each genus, that, whets you meet its congeners, you may not be at a loss where to place them, and may have a tolerably well-founded idea of their habits and manner of life, from their similarity to those with which you are better acquainted.

liecal to your remembrance the distinctions of the first order, CoIEoPTEaA, which are two wings, guarded by two horny cases, that meet together in a straight line. This order is ex'remely numerous. The first genus is called Scarabceus, or Beetle. The larva} of the beetle

c2 race

race mostly lead a solitary life underground; many of them feed upon dung, and delight to harbour in it. Some kinds, especially the gar den beetle and the cockchafer, shelter thciu selves beneath the roots of plants, which they consume, to the great detriment of the florist.

The insects of warm climates exceed those of our temperate regions, in variety, number, size, and brilliancy of coin uis; therefore, I shall occasionally enrich my letters with an account of some of those which you will never see but in the collections of the curious.

The largest of this genus is called the Hercules, and is a native of Sonth America. It sometimes measures not less than five or six inches in length. It is furnished with an cnor moos beak. The wing-shells are inclined to blue, marked with round, black spots; and the head and limbs are of a jet black.

The Goliah is an inhabitant of Africa, and is also of a great size. rrhe thorax is of a rosc colour, striped with i)laCk; and the wing sheaths are a purplish brown. The head is divided in front into two forked horns, and its limbs are very strong.

rrIlc gayest of our beetles is the Green or
Rose Chafer, which you must have often seen
on different flowers, particularly the rose and
the peony, glowing like an emerald, with its
coat

coat of azure, green, and gold. The caterpi1 lar is found in the hollows of old trees, and remains three years before it changes to a chrysalis.

The Dung Beetle has acquired the name of Pilularius, from living in the filthiest sub stances, and depositing its eggs in little pellets of excrement, that resemble pills.

The Cockchafer is so familiar to every child, that its figure needs no description, though it is likely that you are not so well acquainted with its habits. It is a very mischievous insect, both iii its caterpillar and perfect state: in the former it lives in ploughed lands, and makes dreadful havock among the roots of grass and corn. The cockchafer has sometimes appeared in particular districts in such numerous swarms, as to strip the trees of their foliage, and threaten r famine; but ii: the wise arrangement of Nature, where an evil prevails, a remedy is provided to cure or mitigate it. This insect, whilst a grub, aruj after it gets its wings, is the prey of many species of birds, which thin their numbers, and in general pre vent them from increasing beyond a due prom portion. The larva is very small at first, and is two or three years in attaining its full size; when it undergoes its metamorphose to a chiy

salis, in which state it remains till the succeed

ing summer: it then emerges from its tomb, arid after enjoying the pleasure of an improved existence for some time, lays its eggs in the ground, and dies.

The principal species of the second genus, Lucanus, is the Stag-Beetle, which is somc times two inches and a half long, from the tip of the jaws to the end of the body. The general colour is a deep chesriut; but the jaws are sometimes as red as coral: those of the female are much shorter. There is a species of a smaller size, and one lately discovered in New Holland, of a beautiful golden green, with short toothed jaws, of a brilliant copper colours The foreign species of this genus, are chiefly natives of America.

You must search for the larva of the Stag
beetle in the hollows of oaks, where they
shelter themselves beneath the bark, and feed
on the softest parts of the decayed wood. It is
supposed, that it does not attain its full size in
less than five years, when, by frequently turn
ing itself; and moistening its skin with its glues
tinous saliva, it forms a smooth, oval hollow
in the earth, in which it lies; after this, it
remains about a month in a state of torpid
tranquillity, slips off its skin, and becomes a
chrysalis. The ball of earth thus formed, is
larger than a hen's egg, rough on the outside,
but

but highly polished within. The chrysalis lies about three months, before it gives birth to the complete insect, which feeds upon the liquor that oozes from the oak tree.:in this operation, the peculiar conformation of the jaw is of essential use, as it enables its owner to strip off the bark, and fix itself on the branch whence it draws the juice. As. we proceed, we shall perceive manye similar instances of the harmony between the instruments of action, and the instincts of the animal.

The third genus is named Dermestes. This small insect is called the Lathen chafer, from the injury it occasions, in its larva state, to skins, furs, and other animal substances of a dry kind,, upon which it preys with persevering destruction. To the collectors of stuffed birds, dried plants, &c. it is a terrible enemy, anti can scarcely be destroyed but by arsenic.

Tue Dermestes lardarius, is about the third of an inch long. it is produced from the bacon maggot, and when touched, instinct has taught it to conceal its head under its thorax, and its feet beneath the abdomen; remaining in that situation so long without motion, that a person unacquainted with its habits,, would suppose it were dead.

The genus Ftinus, like the last, consists of rwall insects, the larr or maggots of wbich

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

peating them at uncertain intervals; and in old houses, where these insects are numerous, it may be heard, especially if the weather be

warm, almost every hour of the day. You

must not confound this insect, which is the

real Death-watch of the common people, with

a much smaller insect, of a very different genus, which makes a sound like the ticking of a watch, and continues it for a long time without intermission.

Fifth genus, luster.

The insects belonging to this genus, as well as their larva, are mostly found about dunghills. Their habits are either unknown, or not remarkable. They are small, of a coal black, and a flat shape.

Sixth genus, Gyrinus.

The Gyrinus natator is probably well known to you, under the name of the water-Flea, forming circles on the surface of the water, by its very brisk motions. Its curious structure, so admirably adapted to its manner of life, is deserving your attention. The antenne are short and stiff, appearing to consist of one undivided piece; but the microscope showss that they are composed of very numerous, close-set joints. The hinder legs are very broad, finely webbed with minute hairs, and most curiously formed for the purpose of fins

cb or

or oars. In both the larva and complete state, it is an inhabitant of the water, and owes its safety to the briskness of its motions, as, •n the least alarm, it dives beneath the surface, with astonishing celerity. The larva has a very long body, with a great many projections, like sharp-pointed fins, along its sides. Its head is armed with a pair of forceps, so formed as to enable it to suck the juices of the smaller water-insects, which are its prey. If you can catch it, a task not very easy to be performed, you will find it, from its transparency, a curious object for the microscope.

The genUS Pausus is not included in the twelfth edition of the Systerna Natur. The species hitherto discovered, are natives of Africa, and appear to be night insects, furnished with a knob at the end of each antenna, that emits a dim, phosphoric light, which pro bably serves as a lamp, to guide the insect in the dark.

The .larvae of the genus Byrrlius, are found. upon plants, or in the bodies of half-decayed animals. They often undergo their transforms lions in insects that have been preserved, and reduce them to powder. The perfect insect has some resemblance to the lady-bird tribe.

The insects of the next genus, Slip/ia, are mostly found amongst substances in a state of

decay.

decay; frequenting dunghills, carrion, &c. and depositing their eggs chiefly in the latter, which for greater security, they contrive to bury underground. Several of these insects have been seen working together, till they have accomplished the task of dragging under the surface the body of a mole, in the space of an hour, so that no trace of it was to be perceived.

The larvm of the genus Gassida, or Helmet Beetle, eat the under side of the leaves of plants; frequenting, particularly, thistles, and those of the verticillated kinds such as mint, &e. where they hide themselves under a cover of their own excrement, supported in the air above their bodies, by means of the two prongs at the extremity of the tail. When this artificial umbrella becomes too dry, they cast it off, and form a new one. It is very small, of an oval figure; the colour of its back bright green, and the under part coal black. Sonic of the foreign species are very heautiflul.

Amongst the pretty insects of the next genus, Goccinella, you will discover your old favourites, that have so often amused us in our childish ,years the gay tribe of Lady-Birds: some scarlet with black spots, others yellow with black, or black with red, or yellow with white spots, according to the species. Though

vow

you are so well acquainted with the fly, per Naps you (10 not know that the larva and chrysalis are both of them likewise spotted with red or white, and that they are each of great service to mankind, by devouring vast numbers of the aphides; those troublesome, small, green insects, which infested our rose trees last spring, and rendered them so un thriving.

Having drawn out my letter to so great a length, without advancing further than one third of the first order, CO LEOPTERA, I shall lay aside my pen for the present, and resume the subject at a future opportunity. "crewel'

dear Constance, your

FELICIA.

LETTER V.

o CONSTANCE,

S/4iubber?J

DEAR CONSTANCE,

OUR last letter fully recompensed me for any trouble I have taken to amuse you. My time has been well spent, if, as you say, the examination of flowers and insects enliven your walks, and render the exercise your health requires interesting and pleasant, which before was performed merely as a duty. My mother and I also sally forth, as soon as the breakfast-table is removed, to enjoy the freshness of the morning air, equipped with a microscope, and a little straw basket to contain our specimens. With this apparatus we pro ceed, shaking every plant and. shrub, till we discover some object that arrests our attention,

nd rewards our search.

Tjh1OS, poplars, and birch-trees, yield us a rich harvest, in the different sped. s of the beautiful race of insects called Glirysornela, which feed on the pulp of their leaves, but

reject the fibres. That which is found on the poplar

poplar, is twice the size of a common lady bird, and is bright red, with the tips of the wing-shells blk, and a bluish hue on the under part : the larva is of a pale, yellowish green, speckled with black, and edged with rows of bristles, hich, when the insect is handled, emit a disagreeable odour, by means of a white fluid that issues from a pore at the tip of each of them. The species of this genus are numerous, and richly adorned with the gayest colours. Several of them are natives of Tudia and South America.

The next genus, Ilispa, is rare, and singular in its appearance, bearing sonic resemblance to a hedgehog in miniature ; it being a small, black insect, thickly beset with spines. You must look for it at the roots of grass.

The genus Bruckus is found upon pea-. blossoms. Its colour is black, speckled, with white ;. the two fore-legs are reddish, and the hind-legs are armed with a sort of tooth, the purpose of which does not seem to be known.

I must now introduce the genus curcullo, or Weevil, to your notice; a very numerous and destructive tribe. One of them is very familiar, though, I' SUPPOSe, its habits are unknown to you. The next bunch of nuts that fall in your way, examine each nicely, and if there are any small holes in the shells,, you may depend

on it, the larva of the Nutweevii has been a4 work. The perfect insect, early in August) hovers about nut trees, for the purpose of pr o• viding a secure retreat for her future progeny. Directed by pure instinct, fbr it cannot be affection for objects she has never seen, she singles out a nut, which she prerces with her proboscis, and then,. turning round, deposits an egg in the hole she has bored, She passes from one nut to another, providing, in the same manner, for her whole stock of eggs. The nut, apparently uninjured, continues to grow till the kernel is ripe. When the maggot is hatched, it feeds on the nut ; which, by the time it is nearly consumed, fails to the ground,. without hurting its inmate. When approach ing its change, the maggot prepares for its escape by enlarging the bole previously made in the shell,. As soon ass it has emerged from its lurking place, it begins to hurrov under the surface of the ground, where it lies dor mant for eight months, and then, casting its skin, becomes a chrysalis ; in which state is remains till August, when it assumes the form of a small, brown beetle,, with a very longo snout.

In a manner similar to that I have just de scribed, the Weevil, properly so called, ano then species of the same genus,, attacks the -

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of the Gurcuiio argentatus, a brilliant species of the same genus, and a native of our own island.

There is a great similarity between many of the succeeding genus, Attelabus, in both the perfect and larva states, and that I have just described. fri their habits they are also muck alike. Some of them feed on the hazel and the birch.

The next genus, cerambyx, or Capricorn, is very extensive, containing many insects of the most extraordinary appearance, and exceeding, in size, any in the order C0LE0PTEitA, except genus Scarabceus.

/ The Gerambyx ion gimanus measures nearly three inches in length: the wingslieUs are covered with a very fine down, and are dc. gantly varied with red, black, and yellow stripes: the fore .legs are very long, and barred with red.

The Gerambyx damicornis s a native of

many parts of America and e west Indies, where its larva is considered one of their great. est delicacies. They are called Macaccos: and it is said that the emire employment of some negroes is to scoop these maggots out of the bodies of trees, in which they live, and feed upon the inner substance.

The Goatcliafcr, or Musk l3eetle, is. one of

tlIiF

this genus, and takes its name from its powcr ful scent, resembling that of musk, ambergris, and roses. You may find it on the willow.

The genus Leptura bears great resemblance to that of Cerambyx, especially the larva, both in habits and appearance. Some of them are very beautiful. The Leptura arcuata is black, marked on the wing-sheath with bright yellow semi-circular bands. Some. of the Leptur are found in Kent, in the beau and pea-fields, on currant-bushes, and on fern.

The genus Necydalis, Carrion-eater, is distinguished from the other insects of the first order, hi having the wings extended their whole length, instead of being folded under the elytra.

Necydalis crrulea is an elegant species: it is not above half an inch in length, and its colour is a light blue, sometimes inclining to green. It is found in woods during the sum mer months.

The genus Lampyris, Fire-fly or Glowworm, is very interesting,, on account of its luminous appearance in the dusk of evening. The Lamp yris noctiluca, or Common Glowworm, you may chance to have seen, sparkling like a diamond, on some dry, mossy bank or hedgeway. Brilliant as this insect (which, by the bye, is the female) appears in the darkness

of night, when examined by clay-light, it is . little creature, about three quarters of an inch long, of a dull, earthy brown on the back, the under part tinged with rose colour : the two or three last joints of the body are of a

pale sulphur, from whence the phosphoric

light proceeds. The larva, pupa, and coinplcte female insect, in their general appearance, differ but little front each other; but the luminous brightness is most striking itt the last state, and is displayed or withheld at pleasure, being increased by the motion of the insect, and diminished, or obscured, by either unfolding or contracting the body. This curious property is given to the female glowworm, which is destitute of wings, as a means of attracting the notice of the male, which is a flying insect, and, without this dazzling in

vitation, would be at a loss to discover its

mate in the dark. Dr. Darwin alludes to this beautiful phoenomenon, in the Iblowing lines, addressed to the Nymphs of Fire .

You with light gas the lamps nocturnal feed, That dance and glimmer o'er the marshy mead Shine round Calendula at twilight ii furs, And tip with silver all he saffron flowers Warm, on hr mossy couch, the radiant w'riu Guard from cold dews her Iove-illumin'd form:

Hots icy Garden,

rom.

From leaf to leaf conduct (lie virgin light, Star of the earth, and diamond of the night

The genus (antlzaris comprises a number

of small insects, adorned with gay colours, depending greatly on sex, season, &c. so that a description of one of them will suffice. The Gantliaris bipustulata is of a slender shape, and of a very dark, but elegant, gilded green, with the tips of the wing-shells red: on each side of the thorax, a little below the setting on of the wing-shells, lies a triple vessel, or bladder, which the insect can extend or draw in as it pleases. From inspecting this appendage with the microscope, an alternate inflation and contraction is perceptible, like the motion of the lungs in the larger animals, and probably is applicable to the same purpose. This insect frequents various plants, particularly the nettle. Most of the tribe are very voracious some of them have been seen to prey o their own species.

The most striking pecultarity in the genus .Mater, is a spine, situated in the under part of the thorax, so ordered, as to fit, when required, a small cavity in the upper part of the abdomen; forming a sort of spring, that enables the insect, if laid on is brick, to leap to a considerable height. How nice is the mocha

~ is-

nisru of Nature, to efl~ct certain purposes The species are numerous: many of them are natives of the, tropics, and vastly exceed those of Europe in size. The most remarkable is

the ..later no ctilucus, called, in South Ame

rica, Cocujas. It is about an inch arid a half long, and of a brown colour, with a smooth, yellow, semi-transparent spot on each side of the thorax, diffusing such a brilliant plans

phone splendour, that a persona may easily

read the smallest print by its light: and, if
eight or ten of the insects are put into a phial,
they will give a light equal to that of a com
mon candle. The larva of this genus injure
the roots of grass. rIlIe Wire-worm, so de
structive to corn, is sUppOSe(i to be the larva
of the Muter obscurus. cicindela, or Sparkler,
was the name used by ancient writers to desig
nate the glow-worm, but is now applied to a
different genus, the individuals of which have
a strong, rapid flight, and are often seen on
the wing, iii the hottest part of a summer's
day, in dry meadows, or on sandy eauks
The Gicindela cainpestris is remarkably elegant,
being of a bright green, with five small, round,
white spots on the wing-shells; the head, tho
rax, and limbs, are of a rich golden cast, and
the eyes black and prominent. Its larva is a
long, soft, whitish worm, with a brown, scaly
head.

Bead. This worm makes a perpendicular, round hole Il the ground, kepitig its head at the entrance, in order to catch the insects that chance to fail into the hole. These den vouring tyrants t the insect world, will sometimes, by ths stratagem, perforate a piece of ground in a surprising manner.

There are but few species of the genus Buprestis, or Cow-burner, seen in Europe; and they are very inferior in size and splendour to those of India and America, though some of them are elegy ntly adorned,

ihe Buprestis gigantea is a native o' India, China, and South-America, and is distinguished for the glowing brilliancy of its cobars, which are displayed to great advantage from the fllagflitu(le of the insect, which is two inches and a half in length. The thorax is like polished bell-metal, and the wing-cases of a gilded copper-colour, with a cast of bluish green, rendered more dazzling by ridges the length of the elytra. This splendid insect is produced from a large white larva, that is said to ed upon the roots of the convolvolus tribe of plants.

My letter is already so long, that I must defer the remainder of the Coleoptera order to anotlier.

When I review the brilliant decorations of the

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LELJCTA TO C~NsTANCE

bruIbei,.

DEAlt SISTER,

L 0 those who arc attentive observers

of Nature, nothing is more beautiful than the admirable harmony conspicuous between the structure of plants and animals, and the pur poses to which it is adapted.

The next genus, Dytiscus, Plunger or Diver,

affords an instance of this harmony, they being water-insects, furnished with hind legs peculiarl.y adapted to swimming, tapering towards the point, and beset thickly on each side with fine, strong hairs, which serve the office of oars.

One of the largest European species is the

olive colour, with the thorax and wing-sheaths
bordered with yellow, and highly polished in
every part, which secures it from wet. If you
chauce to walk by stagnant waters in a sum
mer's evening, it is likely you will see this fly,
as well as the area that produces it; which
has

1)3tiscus marginalis,

is of a blackish

Haas a resemblance to a shrimp, and is of a most voracious disposition, devouring, isidiscriminalely, water-insects, tadpoles, newts, and even small fishes do not escape its ravages. When arrived at its full growth, it retires to the bank, and there forms a lkllow of at oval shape, where, in a few days, it changes to a chrysalis of a whitish hue, which, itt about three weeks, becomes a flying beetle.

The genus Hydropltilus, another aquatic race, bears a near resemblance to that Dytiscus. The principal European species,.

ilydrop/tilus piceus, is of a singular form; the thorax being extended beneath, into a very long, sharp-pointed spine, and the hind legs fringed with fine, bristly hairs, that enable them to resist the water and act like oars. The larva of this insect has puzIed many naturalists, by the unusual appearance of its legs; which, from the position of the head, unless cautiously examined, seem to be inserted in the back, instead of the under part of the body.

The female fly of this species diflBrs from all other coleopterous insects, in spinning a flat, circular web, o a silky substance, as a repo sitory for its eggs, which it leaves floating on. the water; whence, as soon as the larva are hatched, they commit then asclvcs to that dc

mcnt,

=meat, and immediately commence expert swine" niers.

The genus Garabus, Bull-head, -.contains a vast number of species. As there i-s a great affinity between them, I shall confine myself to some account of the Garabus-crepdeans, a name it has received from a peculiar mode of defence bestowed upon it --by nature. When attacked-by any of its enemies, being the prey of a species of the larger Carati, it discharges a bluish, foetid, penetrating vapour, with a smart explosion, ten or twenty times successsively, which seldom fails to drive away those that would annoy it.

-The genus Tenebrio has received the name of Darkling, from its gloomy habits of lurking in dark, damp cellars, and such neglected places; avoiding the light, and delighting iii filth and putrefaction. Its colour accords with its disposition, being a coal black.

The heal-worm, so often found in flour, is the larva of the Tenebrio ?nolitor, and is the favourite food of the nightingale, when kept in confinement. The rIlenebriolles run swiftly, and emit an offensive effluvia, on which account they are often called Stinking Beetles.

Nature, various in all her productions, has endowed the genus Meloe with singular pro jerties, of which I shaiLgive au example in the

iiteloe

Msloe proscarabwus, commonly called th Oil-beetle, from an oily fluid, of a fragrant smell, that, on handling the insect, exudes from it, and has been thought efficacious in rheumatic cases. r1] is is a large beetle, of a very dark violet colour; the wing-sheaths oval, and so short, in the female especially, as scarcely to cover one-third of the body. Late in the spring, she is often seen in fields and pastures, creeping along, with her body so swoin with eggs, that she moves with difficulty These eggs she deposits in a heap, beneath the surface of the ground; and, as soon as the larvae are hatched, they are nourished by attaching themselves to other insects, and absorbing their juices. The Spanish Fly, used for blisters, belongs to this genus, and is extremely beautiful, being of the richest gilded green, with black antenna.

There are but few species known of the next genus, MordeUa, or Nibbler. They are small, black insects, endowed with the power of leaping to some distance, and are usually found on beds of flowers.

The genus Stapliylinus contains numerous species of a voracious tribe, which are not satisfied with devouring every kind of insect inferior in strength, but often make their own species their prey. Their projecting jaws ac

D 2 cord

cord with their ferocious habit, and enable them to bite and tear; though, from a knack of turning up the tail, which is harmless,, they appear as if preparing to defend themselves with a sting. The wings are large, and curiously folded under the clytra, which are small. When the insect is iucliued to fly, lie expands these delicate wings, and skims through the air with inconceivable light ness. Several of the small species are adorned with beautiful colours, but the largest of the British species,

St apliylinus major, is a deep black, and is frequently seen in autumn, about sunny paths, in fields or gardens. Some of them inhabit cowdung, or humid places, and are called Rovebeetles.

The genus Forficula presents you with an object of your detestation, the Corn mon Earwig; though, before 1 dismiss it, 1 hope to convince you that your aversion rests on a false basis, and that, except the injury to which your flowers are exposed by its ravages, you lave nothing to dread from this much persecuted insect, but a great deal to admire in its curious structure. The vulgar notion, of its entering the human ear, is rejected by men of science as absurd, and ranked amongst those opinions that have originated in ignorance, and been confirmed Liy prejudice.

The

The wings of the earwig arc remarkably! elegant, and lie in so many folds beneath their small sheaths, as to excite admiration. In proportion to the size of their owner, they arc large and transparent ; though probably lcw careless observers know that they have any,. for they fly only by night, and it is dillicuit to make them open their wings in the day-time. instinct has taught the female to seek some damp place for her eggs, cquai1y secure from. drought or heat. Nor does her maternal care stop here, as in most other insects, but when they are hatched sh broods over her young, something like a hen over her chickens; the little ones clinging to her sides for several hours in the day. The larva nrc very small at first, and have a great rccnihlance to the pa rent insect, except being of a whitish colour, and nott yet having the forceps at the end of the tail curved inwards. The earwig lives among ilowers, and feeds upon decayed fruit and other vegetable substances, unless pressed by hunger, when it has been known to prey upon its own species.

having brought you to the last genus of the
first order, I shall conclude my letter, after
earnestly recommending you to examine every
object with the most diligent attention, that
none of those minute parts, appropriated to
particular

particular uses, and evincing the design and ivisdom of the Creator, may escape your notice; fur be persuaded, my (leer Constance, that in studying the book of Nature, delightful as the einpldyment is, amusement is by no means the sole, or even principal object ; but rather that we may become better acquainted with the works of God, in the meanest of which, as well as the most magnificent, his wisdom and goodness are tnik ingly d pinycd. Farewell. Your

Fi:LlcIA.

LETTER.

LETTER VII

FE LI CIA TO CozsTA'

Shiubbery3

iEAIt CONSTANCE,

LEST you should not recollect the characteristics of the second order, lIE Ml PT t II .1 shall repeat them before Ii introduce to your notice the species that compose it. The wing covers are of a leathery texture, like vellum nud cross each other, instead of meeting in a sttigbt line.

The first genus, Blalki. Cockroach, presents a collection of very disagreeable, destructive insects,, well known in kitchens and bake houses, where they consume meal and dough. Though these creatures are disgusting and troublesome inmates in our own country, yet, by comparing them with some of the same genus in warm climates, we are taught to prize the advantages of our highly-fhvoured island, which is exempt from such grievous incon

veniencesc rive Bialla g'igantea is the annoyance of many of the warmer parts of Asia, A.fric~i, acrd

South

quences sometimes attend these qualities in beings of a higher rank: a homely woman is contemned, and a distinguished beauty is too often the victim of her adorer. Lord Byron, irs his " Giaour," has expressed this effect of beauty in so striking a manner, that I shall enrich my letter with the quotation.

As, rising on it purple wing,

The insect green of eastern spring, O'er emerald meadows of Kashmeer, Invites the young pursuer near,

And leads him on from flow'r to flow'r, A weary chase, a wasted hour, Then leaves him, as it soars on high, With panting heart and tearful eye: So beauty lures the full-grown child, With hue as bright, and wing as wild,

chase of idle hopes and fears,

Begun in folly, clos'd in tears. If won, to equal ills betray'd,

Woe waits the insect and the maid. A life of pain .the loss of peace,

From infant's play-and man's caprice. The lovely toy, so fiercely sought, Has lost its charm by being caught; For ev'ry touch that woo'd its stay, Has brush'd its brightest hues away. Till charm, and hue, and beauty gone, 'Tis left to fly and fall alone.

With wounded wing and bleeding breast, A1! where can either victim rest

Can

Can this, with faded pinion, soar From rose to tulip, as before?

Or beauty, blightedd in an hour, Find peace within her broken bower

No; gayer insects fluttering by,

Ne'er droop the wing o'er those that die.

a And lovelier things have mercy shown, To ev'ry failing but their; own

And ev'ry woe a, tear may claim, Except an erring sister's shame,"

The second genus is distinguished by the name of Sphinx, fromm a fanciedd resemblance, i the attitude of their caterpillars, to that of the Egyptian sphinx, caused by fixing the hinder part of their body to a branch of ~t tree, and holding the fore-part erect. Many of the spin their web, compounding with it small parcels of earth and grains of corn They are popularly called Hawk-moths, and mostly ha,~Yc a large thorax and thick body,

y,
tapering towards the extrethity. The flight
f the larger kinds s s either early in to morn
ig, o ° filer sun-set : tii yx y sluggishly, often
uttering a, kind of sound. They suck the
nectar of flowers with their tongues, though
they seldom settle long p then , Some of
tl c m sic; very beautiful, but, as I fear that
you well he tired- of descriptions, I shall select
oily the Sphinx .atrgpos,, as befit g,d s ng sl e .
or

for its size and elegance. The upper wings are of a fine dark grey, variegated with orange and white.; the under are of a bright orange, marked by a pair of black bands. The body is orange colour, barred with black; but its greatest singularity is a very large patch on the top of the thorax, representing the figure of a death's head. Corresponding with this melancholy insignia, this insect emits a shrill sound, very much like that of a bat or mouse; and, from the union of these circumstances, is regarded by the vulgar, in many parts of Europe, as an omen of death. The caterpillar to which the Atropos owes its origin, is supe nor in size and beauty to most others. It is sometimes nearly five inches long, is of a bright yellow, the sides marked by a row of elegant broad stripes, of a mixed violet and sky-blue colour. The tops of these bands form angles on the back, and are varied with jet black specks. If you wish to see this handsome caterpillar, you must search in the potatoe plants or jessa:rnine trees, which are its favourite food.

rrIIc third and last genus is the .. halcena, or Moth, which contains a vast number of species, and is divided into assortments, according t the different habits of the animals. For these distinctions, J shall refer you to more skilful

entomologists5

entomologists, and describe only a fw of the most remarkable.

'i'he PIiala'na il/las is a native of both the

Indies, and its %1 ings frequenilv measure eight

inches from tip to tip ; the ground colour is icli orange brown, and in the middle off-' ea,e wing is a large, triangular, transparent pot bordered with black.

The finest European species is the P/tala'iza Jw;cnia, or Peacock Moth, It is found iii many parts of Germany, Italy, and France but has nest yet been seen in England. It i; beautifully variegated in different lades of grey, black, and browi; and has on the middle of each wing an eye-shaped spot, the centre black, shaded on one side with blue, surround cd with red brown, and included by a circle of black an elegant edging of very al urosn, encircles all the wings, and the antenna; are finely fringed. The caterl)illar from which this beautiful moth proceeds, feeds on the apple

.uid pear trees. Its colour is an flpl)lC green,

anti eacjt segment of the body is ornamented

iitli a row of upright projections of bright blue, surrounded by long, bli filaments, each

of which terminates iii an elevated ti m

The smaller Pcacock Moth is a natie of Eaghind, and is popularly called tie mperor

Moth;

l Ruth it resembles the one I have just c 'eserib.. ed, except being o a more diminutive size,

The great Tiger Moth is another beautiful English species. The upper wings are of a fire, pale, create dolour, barred and spotted with brown whilst the lower are red, with black spots. The caterpillar is brown, with white specks. It feeds upon nettles, changes into a chrysalis in May, and produces a moth in .Trine, which frequents lettuces and other pot..herbs.

Caterpillars, or larvae of the LEPI OPTERA order, have different modes of sheltering then . selves from the changes of the weather and the ravages of their enemies. Some of them roll

p the leaves of plants for their habitations others, which feed only on the interior surface of leaves,, lodge themselves under the outward bkin others conceal t,hemseli cs in woollen cloths, skins of beasts and birds, &c. That of the =' alma ~iia na, found principall:y'on willows and. poplars, at the time of undergoing its change descec ds to the lower hart of the tree, forming a glutinous case as a security, by moistening the woody fibres of the tree with, its saliva. This ingenious coat of nail, resenx~ tiling the colour of the bark, is well adaptedd to elude observation, and is so close as to resist

he frost, and t trong to be successfully

attacked.

attacked by birds; but when it is required, this hard texture is softened by the moth, when emerging from its imprisonment, by.a quantity of fluid, with which it is furnished for that purpose. Some few of the larva live in society, under a :kind of web, formed by their joint industry. The caterpillar of the Brown-tailed Moth furnishes an example of this kind: as soon as the young caterpillars are hatched, they begin a small web, and feed on the foliage of the tree, arranging themselves, with great regularity in rows, and at first devour only the upper parts of the leaves, retiring in the evening to their web. In about three weeks they cast their skin, and enlarge their web from time to time, forming it on all 'sides as strong as possible. Under this coveriig they remain the whole winter in a state of torpidity, till, being revived by the genial season of spring, they again issue forth. Having become stronger, they devour the whole substance of the leaves, without distinction of parts, and sometimes are so numerous, as to cause great destruction to the verdure of the country.

The most valuable of all moths, is the Silk
worm, with whose metamorphosis and figure
you are `veil acquainted. The art of convert
ing its silk into use, is said to have been first
in vented

invented in the island of Cos, by a lady named Pamphylis.

This division includes the moths that are so injurious to woollen and stall's, by devouring the substance, and forming a tubular case, with open extremities, generally assimtilated to the colour of the cloth on which it is nourished.

I shall close my account of Phalwnw, with the description of the Alucitw, which is ex trcmcly elegant; its wings consisting of the most beautiful distinct plumes, of a snowy whiteness. The caterpillar is yellowish green, speckled with black; feeds on nettles, and changes into a blackish chrysalis, enveloped in a white web.

The unusual length of this letter, renders unnecessary any apology.for concluding myself your affectionate sisters

FE. LICIA..

IETTE I

LETTER X.

Fiw,,i' FELICIATO CO. STANCE,

Shrubbery

DEAR SISTER,

TilE fourth order, NEUROFTERA, is distinguished by four naked, transparent wings, forming a net-work, with veins or nerves, and a tail without a sting. It will not present us with such a splendid variety and combing. lion of colours beautifully disposed, as that we last examined ; but it is equally interesting, by the diversity of its metamorphoses, habits, and forms; the larva and perfect insect in some of the genera, differing as much from each other as creatures of a dissimilar kind.

The first genus, Libellula, or Dragon-fly, is doubtless familiar to you; though, I dare say, you are not aware that this brilliant and lively insect, which you have so often seen flying with such rapidity in the gardens and meadows, pursuing the smaller insects with the rapacity of a bird of prey, had spent the larger part of

its existence in the water, before it assumed its flying form.

There

There are many species, both foreign and British the most remarkable of the latter, is the great variegated 1)ragonf1y. This insect is seen in the beginning of autumn, and is remarkably elegant. Examine its head, and you will perceive something like a mask, which, of ning in the middle by a sort of hinge, serves to hold its prey while it is dc Ton ring it. The female deposits her eggs irs the water, which, sinking to the bottom, prorn duce isrva or caterpillars of a xery singular md disgreeabtc aspect rlhclr coloui is dusky brown, and they cast their skins several times before they arrive at their full size. In the pupa state, the rudrnents of the future wings are very apparent. These larvm inc excessively voracious, devouring great num hers of the smaller mvaterinsects, without dis tinction of kinds. They continue in the r Iars'a and pupa states for two years, when they prepare for their liberation to tint of the ti by £reeping ip the stern of some waterplan, and grasping it with their feet, make an effort, by which the skin of the back and head i forced pcn, and makes way for the animal to get free: it tIrt .puts'-forth its head and wings, (liich, like tho of butterflies, re then short, tender, and cotiti icted,) and after wails grad. ally lras 'out the body. This curious trans

forma tioit

formation generally takes place in the morning, and during the clear sunshine. Its improved existence is enjoyed but a short time, in comparison with that which it passed in the watery clement: the frosts of autumn destroy all of them which arc not devoured by different kinds of birds. How extraordinary! that the same creature, in its different changes, should at one time inhabit the water, and would then certainly perish if long exposed to the air; whilst, under another form, it can live only in the air, and would effectually be destroyed by submersion under the water!

The foreign Dragon-flies are very nume
rous: that of the Jibeilula Lucretia is the most
remarkable, from the extreme length and
slenderness of its body. In most of the spe
cies, the structure of the cornea, or external
coat of the eye, is most wonderful, being
marked by a prodigious number of interesting
lines, that, when examined by a microscope,
exhibit so many hexagonal ienscs of equal
convexity on both surfaces. These are each
supposed to be a distinct eye; and, according
to the computation of Leewenhoek, one only
of these clusters contains about twelve thou
sand five hundred and forty-four of these lenses!
Those dragon-flies whose wings are extended
torizontalIy when at rest, live chiefly upon
rnoihs.

Meths; whilst others, whose wings stand erect, and are placed at a distance from each other, with prominent eyes, feed upon llIuscw, or flies.

The second genus, Epheniera, is remarkable for the shortness of its existence in the fly state, which sometimes does not exceed half an hour; though some of them, whilst cater pillars, live in the water for three whole years, where earth and clay seem to be their only nourishment. The larva, when ready to quit that state, rises to the surface of the water, and getting instantaneously rid of its skin, becomes a chrysalis. This chrysalis is furnished with wings, which convey it to the first tree within reach, upon which it settles, and, in the same moment, quits a second skin, and undergoes its last change to a perfect :ephemera. Those species that answer this description, live some days in the larva and chrysalis state They have fringes of hair, which answer the purpose of fins. In both states their ahdomen is terminated by three threads. Whilst larva, they scoop themselves out dwellings iii the banks of rivers, in the form of tubes made like syphons; the one end serving for an entrance, the other affording them an outlet. The banks of some rivers are often full of these curious habitations. In case of the decrease of the water, instinct

- teaches

teaches them to dig fresh holes lower down, for their security.

The most familiar species is the conimoii

May-fly, so plentiful in the early part of sum• mer, in the vicinity of rivulets and stagnant waters. it is of a greenish brown colour, with transparent wings, elegantly mottled with brown, and has three very long, black bristles, at the extremity of the body. The larva is of a lengthened shape, beset on each side of the body with finny plumes, and, at the tail, with three long, feathered processes. When arrived at its, full size, the rudiments of wings, resembling a pair of oblong sheaths, or scales, are visible on the back. It is a fa

ourite thod of several kinds of fishes, particu lady the trout. Some soasons ac so favourm able to its increase, that the air, in the immc diate neighbourhood of its natal waters, is frequently blackened by its numbers, during the evening hours : and we are told, that iii some parts of the duchy of Carniola, a district in Germany, they are used as a manure.

The third genus is called F/rrjgaia. The insects of which it consists have so near a resemblance to some of the moth tribe, that they may easily be mistaken for them: the differ euce, however, is markeel by their palpi, r

feelers, the steneta o the top of the head,

and

anti the hairs which cover their wings, instead of the scales that adorn those of the 1nncw, to which they bear the greatest affinity. The larva' of these' insects live in the water, in tubes formed of silken fibres, covered on the outside with small pieces of wood, sand, gravel, leaves of plants, &c.; and sometimes even the smaller lestaceous animals are dragged alive about with them. These larvae have an instinctive skill of making' their habitations nearly in equilibrium with the' water: when too heavy, they add a bit of wood or straw; when too light, a bit'of gravel. These tithes are open at each end, and the larvae which in habit them, when feeding, stretch out the head and fore parts' of the body, and creep

along the bottom of the water. In most spe

cies there is an upright Pal)111a, or process,
which serves as a prop, to prevent the tube
from slipping too forward, whilst the insect is
thus' employed. When this creature is ap
proaching its change to a chrysalis, he stops
up the openings of its' tube with threads of a
loose texture, through which the wattr easily
penetrates, though they resist the approach of
voracious insects. The members of the wing
ed. insect are visible' through its thin covering,
and as SOOfl as they are OIl tlic joiiit of being
developed, the tube, with its chrysalis, rises
to

to the surface of the water, 'where the P/i rp ganea, now complete, deserts its tube, and enjoys the sweets of the country,. fluttering for a short time upon trees and plants, and then performs its last act of existence, by depositing its eggs in the waterS The larvae of the different species, make use of various materials in forming their tubes; some of them enclose themselves in the water-lentil, cut out into regular squares, and fitted one to another. Swallows feed upon them :• they are also a favourite food with the trout, and are, in consequence, lrcquently used as baits for fishing.

One of the largest kinds is the Phryganea grand/s. Its general aspect resembles a moth: the upper wings are grey, marked by various streaks and specks of different shades, whilst the under ones are of a yellowish brown, and serni-trmnsparent.

The next genus,.. lernerobius, fakes its name from the shortness of its existence, which, however, continues several days..

The most common. species, the ilernerobius perla, is an insect of extreme beauty. It is most common in the summer season ; and is a slender-bodied fly, of a grass-green, with bright gold-coloured CyCS and fiur large, transparent, oval wings, with a fine net-work of pale green

ins It b frcqucnily sccn in the ii ighbourhuod

of gardens; and, if pressed, diffuses a most dia'agreeable odour. The appearance of its eggs differs greatly from that of other insects, having a greater resemblance, at first view, to a minute vegetable, than the production of an animal. Each of them is supported on a delicate stem, of a gummy nature, more than half an inch long, attached to the surface of a leaf or twig. Groups of them may he found on those of the lime-tree in particular, and arc more likely to abound on such plants or trees as arc infested with aphides: the larva' devouring those insects with great avidity, for which they have received the appellation of Lion of the Plant-lice.

The Myrmeleon, or tint-eater, is the next genus. The species best known is the Lion pismire, the larva' of which is distinguished for its curious instincts in preparing a kind of pit-fall, for the entrapment of those, insects that are its prey. The fly is not much unlike a small dragon-fly. It is an insect of Prey, flying chiefly by night, and pursuing the smaller insects with great avidity. It deposits 'its eggs in dry, sandy situations; and the young larva, as soon as they afire hatched, untaught by auy instructor but a natural impalse, turn themselves rapidly round, in order to form a very

mall, conical cavity in the sand The little

animal

animal conceals itself under the centre of the cavity, suddenly rushing forth at intervals, in order to seize any small insect, which, by approaching the edge of the den, has beers so unfortunatee as to fall in; and after sucking out its juices withh itss den tated forceps, which are sharp, and hollow within, throws it, by a strong efibrt, to a considerable distance from its subterraneous abode, lest any other creature should be rendered aware of its danger. Its colour is grey, and its body is covered with small protubcraiwes, and has, on the whole, an unplea.sing aspect, something like a flint-bodied spider. it:suivives the first winter in its larva state, taking no nourishment during that time; but in the spring resumes its voracious clispo sition. It prepares its pit by tracing an out ward circle, of the diameter of the cavity, turning about in a circle till it gets to the centre; thus marking several volutes in the sand, resembling the impression of a large snail shell, deepening it gradually, and throw big out .the superfluous sand with. its horns. This mancauvre is effected.. by closing its forceps in such a manner, that, with (lie head, they answer the purpose of. a shovel, with which it throws the sand with such force, that the'grains often tall a foot beyond the brink. Mischief overtakes every insect that happens to fall into

that

that pit. The Myrmeleon, who is apprised o1 its approach by the grains of sand rolling down to the bottom, overwhelms his victim, then drags him to the bottom. of the hole, seizes him with his forceps, and.. sucks his vitals. When full grown, it envelopes itself in a round ball of sand, gummed and cone nected by very fine silken fibres, which it draws from a projecting tube at the extremity of its body. This interesting insect is found in many parts of the Continent, but has not been seen in England.

The Scorpion Fly is the most common species of the genus Panorpa. It frequents meadows, during the early part of summer. This insect has a longish body, with four transparent wings, elegantly variegated with deep brown spots. Iii the male, the end of the tail is turned up, and terminates in a kind of forceps, that has a threatening aspect, but does no mischief. The larva arid chrysalis of this genus are unknown.

The Raplzidia is the last genus of this order, which contains but few species. That of the Rap ,1zidia ophiopsis is a smallish fly, with transparent wings, and a narrow thorax, stretching forward in a remarkable manner. It is a rare insect, and is chiefly found in woods and hedges.

F Jam

J am fearful of wearying your attention by presenting too many objects to you at once; and, as 1 have come to the conclusion of the order, shall terminate my Iettcr With much affection, your

EE LI CJLL

LETTER XI.

FLJeI4 TO CONST4NCZ. Shrubbery,

DEAR SIST,

TI-lE further I advance in the study of Entomology, the more I am charmed with the variety of form., embellishments, habits, and contrivances, bestowed upon the different tribes of insects, of which the fifth order, Ih-i I'N OPT ERA, will furnish several examples. Remember, that its cl1a!cteristicts are, four wings, generally membranaceous; tail of the female armed with a sting.

The insects of the first genus, Cjnips, or Gall4ly, are concealed in the little, smooth, round, hard galls, found under the oak leaves, and those of other trees, generally fastened to the fibres. Those of the c.ucrcus folii, have a single one iii each gall. These galls are of a woody substance, formed like the nest, by the exuding of the sap of the leaf, occasioned by the puncture of the female, when she deposits her eggs..

The

100

The ~'ynips quercus gernmce, is another species which deposits its future progeny in the oak buds, ad produces One of the finest galls, leafed like a rose-bud beginning to blow. Whilst the gall is small, these leaves are compressed, and are set one upon another, like the tiles of a roof. Open one of these galls, and you will find a kind of ligneous kernel, enclosing a cavity, that serves as a cradle for the little larva, which undergoes its metamorphosis in that enclosure. Oak trees afford nourishment to a multitude of insects. Barbut says, that not less than fifty species, of this tribe alone,. are supported on it.

C The Cynips roses, produces on the sweet
brier, dog-rose, &c. a gall of a singular app
pearance, resembling a beautiful heap of deli
cate green moss, tinged with red. You may
have frequently observed them in autumn: a
small, white maggot, is discovered in the centre
of this solid, fleshy substance; and sometimes
there are several inhabitants in the same mass.
The leaves of willows are marked by large,
irregular, red swellings, during the summer,
which are caused by a small species of the
'nips, of a yellow colour, with a black thorax.
The process of foming these galls is very cu
rious: the insect penetrates the bark, leaf, or
spot which begins to bud, and there sheds a
drop

:Atop of corrosive fluid, lays its egg, and dies. The circulation of the nutritive juices being interrupted by the infusion of this poison, the adjacent parts are corroded, and the natural colour of the plant altered; the gall-nut is thus produced by the sap or juice, which, from this circumstance, is turned out of its usual course.

The second genus, Tentizredo, or Saw-fly, is SO named from the formation of its sting, which differs--from that of all other insects, those of the following genus only excepted.

The species of the Tenthridines are very numerous, and differ from one another in colour and size. Some, by means of their saw, deposit in the buds of flowers, others on the twigs of trees or shrubs, eggs, which produce larvae, called false caterpillars, that bear a great. resemblance to those of the order Lepidoptera, or real caterpillars; from which, however., you may readily distinguish them, by the number of feet being generally from eighteen to twenty-two; whilst those of the true kind never exceed sixteen, and are seldom so numerous. They feed on the leaves of plants, particularly the rose and the willow, and undergo their chrysalis state in a strong, gummy envelopment, prepared with silken threads in

autumn,

1O2

tntumn, from which the complete ihcct liberated in the following spring.

The larva of the smaller species are very inurious to different kinds of esculent vee

tables, particularly turnip'. Mr. Marshall, the

agriculturist, has collected a number of curious thcts relative to that destructive kind, specift caUy named the Turnipfly. From the tcsti .mouy of fishermen, and others with whom he conversed, who had been long resident on the coast of Norfolk, there scenis no doubt that they emigrate in the fly state, in countless mule .ions, from sonic distant couairy probably the north of Europe, across the ocean, bela

varded in their progress by a uorthcast winds They nrrve in clouds, nrc supposed to rest occasionally an the surfitce of the water, and

re frequently seen lying in shoals on the beach, in an exhausted condition, from which they are revived by the warmth of the sun. The appearance of the black canker, as they are popularly called, justly alarms the farmer with an omen of destruction to his crop of turnips, unless the rooks befriend him, or he is able to thin the numbers of the caterpillars, by regaling his ducks with them. The parent fly inserts her eggs, by means of her sawed tube, in the fleshy part of the turnip-leaf: they hatch in about ten days The young cater

pu tars

pillars are extremely voracious, and in that state cause so much mischief, as to destroy the whole crop.

One of the principal species is the Tent Itrecto lute,, which proceeds from a large green larva adorned with a double row of black specks along each side. The chrysalis, which is of a palish brown, displays the limbs of the future fly, which is yellow, barred with black, and nearly as large as a common wasp.

The larva of the genus Sirc.v,' live in the decayed pa rtsof trees, on the substance of which they, feed. The limbs ofthe perfect insect' are as clearly perceptible in the chrysalis, as in the genus Thntkredo. It is rarely seen in this country; but some species have been caught h

The largest species is the Sirex gigas, which exceeds a hornet" in size, and is' principally observed in4he neighbourhood of pinebearing trees. It is black, with the eyes and lower half of the abdomen bright orange colour: the thorax is hairy, and' the wings of a trans parent, yellowish brown. The sting is' very

onspicuous and consists of three" laminae or parts two at the sides, which serve for sheaths; and one in the middle, rather toothed, which is the real sting, and is forked at the end. The male is smaller than the female, and has

neither

neither spine nor sting. if the larva changes to a chrysalis in summer, a fly proceeds from it in about three weeks; but if at the close of autumn, it lies dormant the whole winter, and is not released from its confinement till the following spring.

The genus Ic/inezAmon presents great variety of insects, who provide for the support of their of prang in a most extraordinary manner; the female being furnished by Nature with an instrument resembling a whimble, with which she deposits her eggs in the bodies of other insects whilst alive, and generally in those of caterpillars. For this purpose, the female Ichneurnon, according to her kind, selects her proper victim, and pierces its skin with her tube, introducing her eggs beneath the surface The animal thus injured, has no means of redress: all its endeavours to escape are in vain. The Ichneumon never quits her hold till she has discharged her whole stock; and what is still more astonishing, the vitals of the caterpillar are so little affected, that it frequently survives some time after the young larvae have fed uponn its nutritious juices; and there have been instances of its transforming into a chrysalis.

The well-known caterpillar of the Common White or Cabbage Butterfly, affords one of the

H] OSt

105

most familiar examples of this singular process, which you may observe in the autumn. When you perceive a caterpillar of this kind creeping into some corner, in order to undergo its own change into a chrysalis, watch it, and in the space of a day or two, it is likely you will see a numerous tribe of small maggots emerging from it, and immediately proceeding to envelope themselves in distinct yellow silken cases, forming one group round the caterpillar. Other small species of Jchneunidn pierce the skins of newly changed chrysalids, butterflies, and moths, in which their larvae remain during their incomplete state, Others again are so very small, that the female deposits a single egg in the eggs of moths and other insects. However formidable this race may be to the caterpillars, they are very useful to man, by destroying multitudes of the plant.-lice and other insects; and in some seasons, when the increase of caterpillars has been very injurious, these cannibal insects have multiplied in pro portion. One of their characteristics in the fly state, is the continual agitation of their antenme; and another, that the abdomen is generally joined to the body, by a stalk or pedicle.

The next genus, Spliex, or Savage, has an instinct in one respect directly opposite to that

106

of t }e Ichneumon, as, instead of depositing their eggs in the bodies of living insects, they insert theirs iii those that are dead, that the young larvae, when hatched, may find a proper. supply. This provident care for the welfare of its young, is combined with the most savage disposition towards other creatures. The manner of living, the form of the body, and the place of harbour, varying in difl'ereut species; yet all agree in being the fiercest of flies. Nor do they fear to attack insects much larger than themselves, whether defenceless or armed. They are endowed with strength great in proportion to their size. Their jaws are hard and sharp ; and in their sting lies a poison, suddenly fatal to the creatures with which they engage. On the first seizure, the Savage gives a stroke of amazing force; after which he falls down, as if he himself had received the blow; but it is only to rest from his fatigue, and enjoy his victory. Numerous are the insects that become his victims; for no part of them serve hint for food but the eyes, the filament that supplies the place of a brain, and a small part of the contents of the body.

The Sphex jigulus having found a con
venient retreat, seizes on a spider, and having
killed it, deposits it at the bottom of her cell,
and laying her egg in its she closes up the
orifice

107

orifice of the cavity with clay. The Iarv, which resembles the maggot of a bee, having devoured the spider, encloses itself in a dusky silken web, and becomes a chrysalis, from which, iii a certain number of days, proceed a complete insect. The parent Sphex has not completed her work, till she has prepared several separate holes, in each of which she places a dead insect and an egg, each cell costing her the labour of nearly two days

Many species are common in England. They bear great affinity to the race of wasps and bees, arid are chiefly found in woods and. hedges.

r1 he genus G1zrysis or Golden-fly, is remark able for its brilliancy of colour. That species most common in our own country, is the Ghrysi ignitis. It dwells in holes of walls, harbouring between the stones and the mortar that cements

them, where it lays its eggs. The Iarv rc

semble those of the wasp. It is about the size of the common window-fly, arid is of a rich,., deep, gilded azure, on the head and thorax, with the abdomen of the most splendid reddish gold colour.

I shall now introduce to you a more minute

acquaintance, the genus Vespa, or wasps, whose

external appearance is too familiar to need any description. rrie mode of life of these: insects

greatly.

108

greatly resembles that of the bee; and the
curious structure of their nests, equals the saga
city of that insect, in its order and accommoda
tion. They frequently choose some dry bank,
on which they form their city; its shape is
that of an upright oval, measuring about ten
or twelve inches in diameter. The inside con
sists of several stages, of hexagonal or six
sided cells, placed horizontally, and the inter
stices of each stage being connected by upright
pillars. The outside of the nest is guarded by
a great many layers of a paper-like substance,
so disposed as to secure their dwelling from
the efl~cts of cold and damp. This external
covering is formed of the fibres of various dry
vegetable substances, connected together by a
gummy fluid, discharged from the mouths of
the insects during their operations. This nu
merous commonwealth is founded by a single
female, who deposits one egg in each cell
which serves as a cradle for the young larva
or maggots. These are fed by the neuter Or
labouring wasps, with a coarse kind of honey;
and when arrived at their full size, close up
their respective cells with a fine tissue of silken
filaments, and after a certain period emerge in
their complete form. The male insects are
destitute of a sting, and are very few in num
her, in comparison with the neuter or labouring
insect s

109

insects. They are of a very voracious disposition, living occasionally on flesh, and are extremely destructive to fruit; but as they do not lay up a store of honey for winter use, but few of them survive that season, and those which do, are in a torpid state.

Vespa crabro, or the Hornet, is a large species of wasp, that makes its nest in the trunks of hollow trees, in timber-yards, or similar sitnalions. Its comb is composed of a substance like coarse paper or rusty parchment. It is very voracious, devouring other insects, and even bees. A highly elegant wasps' nest, not much larger than an egg, has been sometimes seen during the summer, hanging, as it were, by its base, to some convenient projection within, it consists of several bells, one above another, the interior alone being entire, and furnished willi a small, round opening, the rest reaching only about two-thirds from the base of the nest. In the centre of the interior bell, are situated the ranges of cells built round a small pillar attached to the base : they are not very numerous, and the openings of these cells are downwards. As I intend to devote a whole letter to that valuable insect the bee, which next. succeeds in order, 1 shall, ibm the present, bid you adieu, with every wish for your happiness and enjoyment.

FE [1ICIA.

1:'io

LETTER XII.

FJzIcrA TO CONSTANCE8

S1irzcbbery

DEAR SISTER,

HE next genus that presents itself to our view, is that of Apis, or Bee, which will furnish you with matter for observation during the whole course of the summer, in my aunt's glass beehives, where you will have an opportunity of seeing the process of their labours and instincts, that I am going to describe.

The genus is extensive, and is divided by J4inrlaus into two classes; those in which the body is but slightly covered with fine down and those which are thickly clothed with hair. The latter are commonly called humble Bees; but, as I have already said, many kinds are contained in these divisions, whose talents, manners, and dispositions,, are greatly varied. Some live in society, others dwell and work in solitude, 'building the cradles for their progeny with the leaf of the rose-tree, of which the Leaf cutter bee is n example: the anon bee uses a

kind

kind of plaster and the Woodpicrccr,. saw dust, for the same purpose.

The species the most important to us, is the common honey 13cc, which has always been celebrated as an example of industry, order, and foresight; though these qualities must be ascribed solely to an instinct, which impel* these animals to pursue their occupations with certain success, from always adopting the same mode of accomplishing (hem. The same Power that has endowed them with these dis positions, has also furnished them with organs suited to their operations.

A swarm of bees is composed of three kinds: a female or queen; and labourers, which are supposed to be, of no sex. There is seldom more than one queen in a hive, though more have been occasionally observed, The males are few in number, compared with the labour ers, who probably exceed them in the proportion. of an hundred to one. The queen is not so large in the trunk as the males, and rather larger in every part than the labourers. 11cr size and shape diilr in summer from what it is in the winter, being then much larger ; and she has a sting similar to that of the working bee, an instrument of defence, of which the male bee, or drone, is destitute. For this de iciency we shall hereafter find a reason. The

structure.

structure of the labouring bee is curiously adapted to the offices it has to perform: the tongue is of a peculiar construction, extremely large in proportion to the size of the creature: in length it consists of three parts; one, its ar ticulation witli the head, which has some

:f finny to the larynx in the human body; the next, the body of the tongue, formed of a kind of base, which supports the true tongue: this base is of a horny substance, in which there is a groove, and it is united with the larynx. On the end of this is fixed the true tongue, with its different parts. rI11is apparatus is enclosed in two horny scales; each of these is likewise composed of two parts, or scales, one articulated with the other. The mechanism of thiscurious member is so complete and minute, (consisting, according to Barbut, of twenty parts,) that 1 fear I cannot give you a further account of it, unless by a sketch of its figure, with which I

Till endeavour to furnish you. The whole apparatus can be folded up into a very small compass, under the head and neck. The form ation of the esophagus terminates in a fine, transparent bag, which is the immediate re ceiver of whatever is swallowed: from this bag the food is either carried further into the stout mach, for the nourishment of the animal, or is regurgitated for other purposes. This bag, or

craw,

craw, is something similar in its use to the craw of pigeons, and several other kinds of birds, which throw up part of what they have eaten, in order to feed their young. The whole internal structure of the bee is well adapted to this purpose.

The sting is an apparatus equally curious, and suited to its office, inflicting a wound, and, at the same time, conveying a poison into that wound. it consists of two small darts, or piercers, barbed at their extremity, conducted in a groove, and enclosed in a scaly sheath. The muscles by which this sting is moved, are very strong, and well calculated to give it motion in almost all directions, whether this weapon is used as an instrument of offence or defence, it is generally fatal to the bee, as well as injurious to its enemy; for the darts being serrated at the edges, caii seldom be withdrawn, without dragging out the whole apparatus, with part of =the bowels.

There is no doubt that bees possess the five senses they have also the power of utter ing a voice. Those accustomed to bees, can immediately tell when a bee makes u attack, by the sound, which is most likely caused by the wings; but if they are hart, or in distress, they utter a cry, independent of their wings, which has been proved, by the experiment of

smearing

114

smearing them over with honey. Previously to swarming, they utter a peculiar sound, which may be compared to that of a small trumpet, as if to give notice to their companions of their intended removals The bee undergoes the same metatnorphoses as other insects.

it is time to turn your attention to their employments, and the materials they collect A hive frequently sends off a colony about the beginning fJune when the numbers of in habitants would be too large for their limits the young swarm prepares to quit their pa rental dwelling by hanging abbot the mouth of the entrance for some .lays as if watching for flue weather for taking their flight. It is sup posed that a young queen is their leader. When one goes on; they. all immediately foi iowa and fly about, seemingly in great confu sign, although there i one priucpie actuating the whole. Sometimes, after hovering in the a.ir a little, they fly away, mount upwards, and go off again with great velocity till they find. a convenient restingpIace ; such as thebmauch of a tree, the cavities of old trees, or' any other hollow place, suitable to their purpose. Their next business is to make their combs which they. begin directly. Wax is their znaterial; but whence do they procure it Jt has comnmQnly been thought from the farina of flowers; but Mr. r..,unter suggests adifii,rcnt

idea

115

idea. Tie supposes that it is a substance formed within themselves, exuding from the scales of their abdomen, and probably sometimes mixed with farina, as the case requires. The wax in its native state is white, but, when melted from the comb at large, it becomes yellow; arising, as is likely, from being stained with honey, bee-bread, &c. The rows of cells that compose the comb, form perpendicular plates, or partitions, which extend from top to bottom, tnd from side to side, of the hive. They always begin at the top, arid work downwards. The cells are olan hexagonal form and those designed for holding the young are all of a given depth; whilst the others, rescrv& for their store, arc frequently shallower1 One ecU is distinguished from the rest, which is called the royal cell. rfI,cre arc sometimes several of these: it is much wider than the others, but seldom so deep-. Some suppose that this is designed for the reception of the queen.

As soon as a few combs are formed, the queen bee begins laying her eggs. 11cr first eggs produce labourers, the next the males, and the last die queen. The eggs are laid at the bottom of the cell even beh)rc it is hail completed. Each egg is fastened to the bot torn by a gluey matter. in newly-formed cowb

many

1,1

many in an unfinished state, the substance called bee-bread is found. After a certain time, the eggs produce maggots, which sup ply new work fbr the labourers, as on them devolves the task of feeding and nursing the young progeny. Like many other insects, they cast their coats; but how often seems unknown. They sometimes remove the Eggs, and also the maggots, from one cell to another. When the maggot is grown so large as nearly to fill the cell, it requires no more food, and, being ready to change to the chrysalis state, the bees cover the month of the cell, in a convex form, with a substance of a light brown colour. The maggot within is not idle; it lines the receptacl' that contains it with a silk, which forms a case for the chrysaiis

if observation did not teach otherwise, it would be natural to suppose that the labourers would feed the young maggots with honey; but it is more probable that they are nourished with bee-bread, a substance that they preserve with great care.. This is that precious yellow dust that you may have often seen adhering to their legs, of which they despoil various plants, but not without giving preference to some beyond others. It is amusing to see them deposit this treasure in the cell: they are some time in fixing upon a cell; when they

have

117

have chosen, they put their two hind legs into it, having the two fore legs and the trunk on the outside of the next cell, and, thrusting down their tail into that they have selected, they then bring the leg under the belly, and, turning the point of the tail to the outside of the leg laden with the farina, they shove it off with the point of tii tail, and fly away on another expedition. A fresh bee soon comes, and, creeping into the cell, kneads and works the farina till it is perfectly smooth, and becomes of a consistency like paste.

When the last transfirmation has taken place, the complete bee destroys the covering of its cell, and issues forth into day-tight. At first they are of a greyish colour, but soon turn brown. When the season for laying eggs is over, it is succeeded by that for collecting honey; therefore, when the last chrysalis comes forth, its cell is inimecliately filled with honey, and, as soon as a cell is full, it is covered over with pure wax, to remain as store for the winter. They provide also a stock of bee-bread, for the young maggots, in the spring.

having accomplished all their tasi's pre
viously to the approach of winter, a scene en
sues that iriarks their economy, but seems to
have

'118

have something of cruelty in it, They will not suffer a useless mouth to partake of their honicd store. The males, or drones, are no longer necessary, and are therefore teased to death by the labourers; who do not appear to sting them, but only pinch and pull about these defenceless insects, till they are fairly worn out, and die exhausted by the ill-treat meat of their folio wcitizens. Not one is suf fered to survive.

The bee is very susceptible of cold, and re mains quietly in the shelter of its hive, sup ported by the provision that is laid UI) for that dreary season, till the summer calls it forth t, fresh labours and enjoyments.

Their enemies are the wasp and the hornet;

bo are said to open their bodies, in order to suck out the honey. Spar xows have sonietimes 'been seen with one in their bill, and one in each claw. The waxmothi occasionally steals into the hive, and feasts upon their honey.

The Carpenter Bee is so named from its habit of forming long, tubular cavities in wood; the bodies of living trees, or drywood, being equally adapted to the purpose. These cavi ties extend several inches in length, are about the third of an inch in diameter, and are marked into separate spaces each about three

quarters

n9
quarters of an inch long. When this habitat

lion is properly prepared, the insect lines each of those spaces with rose leaves, rolled over each other, the bottom of each being formed by several circular pieces of these leaves, placed over each other till' it is of a sufficient thickness. The bee then deposits an egg at the bottom of each division, and, after leaving a proper quantity of a kind of honey, for the non rish meat of the young IV lien hatched., closes the top with a lid composed of the same materials as the base., and in the same manner finishes the whole series. This curious opt ration is mostly performed in autumn. The young bee passes its intermediate states in these retreats and seldom emerges till pretty late the following summer. These small in

sects, a[)pardntiy so feeble and harmless, have

been known, with the mu1titudeof these aper hires, to have done serious injury to the ma jestic oak.

Were 1 to mention every particularity in the history of those inter-resting insects, I should ex tend my letter to an unreasonable length; there fore, you must be satisfied with those leading feam tares that I have selected for your amusement, and pursue the curious enquiry by your own attentive observation, and the study of such

authors

authors as have treated the subject at full length. After hoping that my scholar may become capable of giving me instruction, I shall close my epistle, with subscribing myself your affectionate

FELICIJL

LETTER Xi1I

F2LICrA TO CbNsT4Ncz

mull ery.

DEATh SISTER,

0 to the Ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.'Tide was the advice of the wise Solomon, and might possibly be appropriate in that part of the wdr!d where he resided; but the naturalists of later times have discovered, that, in our climate, ants do not lay up a winter store. It is supposed, by Leewenhoek, that they lie dormant, and do not cat at all in the winter; and that the provision they collect is intended as a present supply for their young, rather than for themselves,

The insects of the gdrius Formica, or Ant;
like that of the bees and wasps, are divided into
males, females, and neuters, each being desm
1incd'to similar employments. The males and
females are provided with wings, and enjoy all
the

the pleasures of a wandering life; while the neuters, or labourers, destitute of wings or sex, labour continuallyfor the good of the colony, in forming their habitation, which may he compared to a well-regulated republic, it is always made in a stiff soil, at the foot of a wall or tree, exposed to the sun, and consists of one or several cavities, in the form of an arched vault, hollowed out with their jaws. Each has its task assigned him one casts out the mould, whilst another is foraging abroad to collect provision for the community. Ani

naI or vegetable substances are equally acceptable to them, as they willingly eat either the smaller kinds of insects, or difiBrent fruits. their appetite for animal food has rendered them useful to anatomists, who, when they 'wish to obtain the skeleton of any animal too small to admit of being prepared in the usual way, have availed themselves of their carnivorous disposition, by placing it in a box pcrfoiated with holes, in the midst of an ant-hill, where the fleshy parts are presently consumed. Very elegant skeletons of frogs, snakes, &c. bave been obtained by this means.

Though they do not lay 14 winter stores

their economy is very curious. The eggs of *he Conimoii, or Black Ant, are white, and etreme1y small. From these are hatched the

larva

erecping on the mountains of purple porphyry, were of the same colour; a peculiarity be stowed upon them for the benevolent purpose of concealing them from birds, or some other enemies.

The last genus in this order is that of .Nutila. Their habits have a great affinity to those I have just described; hut they are larger, and their, colours are more lively. These bcauti ful insects are inhabitants of the ground, arid are to be sought under the moss, where they love to conceal themselves, when they find a hollow space beneath it. They are swift in motion, and their wings shine like pearls. But sonic of them are without wings, which probably marks the distinction of sex. They are said to live together in small communities.

The sixth order, DIPTEItA, presents a race of insects that have two wings, and two poiSetS; the first genus of which is Oestrus, or Gad-fly. Various are the substances from rhick instinct directs the minute tribe of in sects to select a nidus for their young. We have already seen that the ichneumon deposits her eggs in the bodies of living insects, the Sphcx in those of (lead ones, while the Oestrus inserts tiers in (lifiCrelit parts of the bodies of quadrupeds, confining her operations, wit It ;curious skill, to those parts only that will an

swer

125

wer her purpose. For the performance of this task, Nature has furnished her with a svil im b e of wonderful structure, fixed in the binder part of the 'body. This whimbie is a scaly cylinder, composed of four tubes, which draw out like the pieces of a spying-glass. ,i he last s arnieu w'rtii three hooks. and is thc gimlet which enables this small insect to bore through the tough hides of horned cattle.

`l'he pruicwai European spectes is the O Gad-fly, which is about the size of a common bee, and of a pale yellowish brown, marked wtk dusky streaks. The female, when ready to deposit her eggs, fastens on the back of one

the horned tibe, and, by means of her wh imble, lays an egg in the skin, reneating the same operation on many parts of the animal's back. It may be presumed, from the dread that cattle betray on the approach of this minute enemy, that the pain is acute:

j, their attempt to escape their tor

betaking to some piece of wvc1Prtunity of

tion they are seldom attacked. The egg being hatched, produces an oval maggot, of a yellow ish white, that, as it increases in size, causes swellings beneath the skin of the ox, which enlarge till they are nearly an inch, or more, iii diameter.

When

126

When fullgrown, the larva breaks through the tumour, and slides down to the ground iii the cool of the morning: it there digs itself a burrow, into which it retires. The larva skin. becomes hard, and turns to a kind of solid shell, En this case the insect is transformed to a chrysalis, and afterwards o a winged fly. it would be almost impossible for the fly to escape from this strong enclosure, had not Na hire made a curious provision fir' the purpose, there being a small valve at one end, ft stoned. only by a very slight filament, which, on the first push made by the (ad ily, opens without Eli fliculty

The difiircnt kinds of animals are attacked by distinct species of the Gad4ly. That which farriers call .Jots, is peculiar to the Horse The precaution of the parcit it scct for the future wclfhre of hvr young, deserves a minute account. When she has fixed upon a horse $uited to her purpose, she approaches it on th

in g, and holding hs'cu inwards, she

h'pcnds herself for a few seconds in that posi lion, then suddenly darts upon the selected spot, and leaves her egg adhering to the hair, to which it is fastened by a glutinous liquor. This is repeated by a number of flies, till four o five hundred eggs arc sometimes placed on

one

127'

one horse. The horse, when accustomed t these attacks, seems scarcely aware of the injury it must sustain from its insiduous enemy; for, instead of placing her eggs promiscuously,

s an inaccurate observer might suppose, slay invariably places them on those parts which are most liable to be licked with the tongue. The eggs, after having remained on the hairs four or five days, the slightest application of warmth iuid moisture is sufficient to bring forth the imprisoned larva; therefore, on the touch of the horse's tongue, a small, active worm is instantaneously produced, and adhering to it,

s conveyed With 1 every part

?rtheinsde, and are often found in the in1es tines ; and are probably as injurious to the health of the horse, as worms are to the human constitution. They attain their full growth about the latter end of May, and are dropped from the horse from this time till the latter end of June: they then seek a retreat, in which they become chrysahids, and in about six weeks are transtbrmcd into flies.

The Sheep dad-fly is a terrible tormentor to that harmless race of quadrupeds, by insertlug her eggs in their nostrils, where they become grubs, and feed on the mucous matter they find there. The sheep dread their enemy,

become

iecom rcstkss and agitated on the r apptuach and in order to avoid its attacks, they nie frequenfly seen, in the middle of a hot day, crow thai togcthcr on dry, dusty hives, with their noses held close to the ground, that the iliL's may not be able to get at them.

The enterprising and pious traveller, Mr. Bruce, the crihcps the lbrn:idablc c1flcts of an African fly, called Zimb, which, from its habits, probably is a spccics of this genus. lie ie marks, that, in appearance, it is weak and contemptible; yet, in its consequencu, more fomudable than kre herds of the most, fcio

(Au -

the cattle, alarmed biRe Ull bY a1-°l ibrsakc their food, and run w;Idly about th plain till they die, worn out with fatigue, alarm, and hunger. The shepherd has no remedy t secure his flocks from the attacks of this devas tating insect, which produces large bosses, swellings, and putritied sores, all over the body of the aniwa!, which prove its certain destruction, but to abandon the rich plains, and hasten with his charge to the sands of At barn, where his cruel enemy never dares to pursue him. Isaiah, cant in ucs Mr. Bruce, has given a most striking description of this

destructive insect " And, it shall conic to pass in that (Jay, that the Lord shall hiss for

tho

129

the fly that is in the uttermost part of the rivers of Egypt; and they shall come, and shall rest all of them in the desolate valleys, and in the

holes of the rocks, and upon all thorns, and

upon all bushes." Isaiah, chap. vii. ver. 1S, 19. The same writer accounts for the separation of the Israelites and the Egyptians at the time of the plagues; particularly relating to that of the fly jnflicted on the latter, by the limits prescribed by Providence to this insect, that confined it to the black earth of the valley of Egypt, which bad been overflowed by the Nile, we see that the Supreme Being is never at a loss to bring about his designs, and that the most powerful of his creatures cart never exceed the bounds that he has ordained. Lest 1 should extend my letter too long, I shall defer the other genera of this order till another opportunity, and am, with sincere aflec tion, yours,

FE UClA,

LETTER

130
LETTER XIV.

FELICIA TO CONSTANCE. DEAR CONSTANCE,

A RAINY morning having depriv
ed me of my walk, I cannot employ the leisure
opportunity more agreeably than in writing to
you; and shall continue my entomological
descriptions, by introducing to your notice the
genus Tipula, which bears a near affinity to
that of the gnat tribe. The larger kinds are
generally distinguished by long, slender bodies;
expanded ivings; and legs of unusual length,
which are so frail and tender, that the insect
can scarcely be handled without breaking them.
The larvri of the different species vary miicli
in their modes of life; some being terrestrial,
and others aquatic. They feed on the softer
kinds of vegetable substances. The largest
of the European kinds, is the Tipula riz'osa:
this is our old acquaintance, father Longlegs,
which has so often distressed us, by flying into
the candle, notwithstanding all our endeavours
to preserve it from such a painful death. It
proceeds

131

from a greyish larva, destitute of legs, which is found beneath the roots of grass, in meadows, gardens, &c. This larva changes into a Iengtii cued and pointed chrysalis, out of which a complete insect emerges in September. The chrysalids of both kinds are furnished with two small curved horns, through which they breathe, and are endued with a progressive motion; but cannot move backwards, being prevented by little spines placed on every ring of the abdo men.

The Tipula crocata is one of the few insects of this genus, adorned with lively colours: it is of polished black, and the body encircled with golden rings. The larva is found in the stumps of decayed trees, and the perfect insect is often met with in meadows.

You may have observed great numbers of
minute flies sporting on the windows in a sum
mer's evening, which, probably, you have mis
taken for gnats: they are the Tip.uiwp/iake
noides, and when examined in the microscope,
their wings deeply fringed with hair, and the
nerves beset with .cales or feathers, make a
very elegant appearance. Some of the smaller
kinds flutter about the waterside in a summer's
evening, in prodigious numbers in the larva
state many of them are a prey to sties; when
they

they acquire wings, they are equally exposed to the rapacity of birds.

rlllie next genus is that of JWusca, or Fly, and its. species are so numerous, as to render it necessary to assort it iii dilftaent divisions. The principal of these are distinguished by the :Form of the antcnnm, whicli are either simple, or furnished with a plume. These are again subdivided into such as are more or less downy. The Fly is the most common of all insects, though the habits of the different kinds vary exceedingly, more especially iii the larva states some of which inhabit the earth, others the water. Those of the more common kinds, are generally known by the name of maggots)

and spring from eggs deposited on putrid

substances of different kinds. Several of the aquatic species are curiously formed for their mode of life, and display striking examples that the great Creator has provided for the accommodation and enjoyment of the meanest of his creatures, Some inhabit vegetables, and fed on other Iivin' insects, particularly the aph ides. These larv seem to want eyes, and seek their prey by lengthening their head, r1 he mouth of the perfect Musca, is fbrmed by a soft-, fleshy proboscis, with two lateral lips, and has no palpi.

Tic .Mitrca cameleon is a large, black fly, of

I C

of a flattish shape; its head greatly resembles that of the Oestrus, and the eyes occupy the greatest part of it. The larva of this fly dwells in fresh water, and the perfect insect walk upon the surface. The female places her eggs in the hollow stalks of aquatic plants, so se curely, that they cannot easily be carried away. From this egg proceeds a hrva of a singular structure, that may be often seen crawling on the grass, near shallow, standing waters. The tail has .a verge of hairs, which, when erased ed, supports the insect on the surfhce, wills i1 head downwards. When it is its wish to dc scend, it contracts the hairs into the form of a bell, or sometimes entirely doses them ; if it have occasion to rise again, it forces a bubble from a small opening in the centre of the tail, which immediately has the desired eliect.

In the first division also, is Ibund the Ji'Jusca cermiteo, a middlesjed fly, of rather a lc ngth seed form, and of a dull yellow, wit ii 1ran.. parent wings. It inhabits the southern parts of Europe, and foTins a circular pit to entrap its prey, in a similar manner to that of the ant-lion.

Amongst those flies that arc downy, with bristled antenna, may be remarked the Musea tenax. The larva is a longest aiied, brown mar got, frequently found in muddy, stagnant

waters

waters, drains, and other places of the dirtiest description ; and though uninviting in its first appearance, deserves au accurate examination, from iliose who love to observe the contrivances of Na' nrc. Ti has seven feet On each side, which are curiously adapted to enable the insect to ascend perpendicular walls, &e. in order to seek a proper situation for its trans fbrmation into the chrysalis state. These feet are very broad, and thickly beset on their under side with small, hooked claws, with which it clings to the surface, without danger of failing.

The Musca pendula is black, with bright yellow stripes. Its larva inhabits stagnant waters, and is furnished with a long tail, that the creature can extcad at pleasure, terminated by a very small air-hole.. The length of this tube is varied according to the depth best suited to the inclination of the insect, the tip reach lag to the surface, to supply the requisite quantity of air. The complete insect is irequenily seen on flowers, do ring the autumnal season.

The common large Blow-fly ranks among
the hairy or bristly flies. The eggs being laid
n animal flesh, the maggots are hatched in the
space of a few hours, and are eight or ten days
in acquiring their full size. When it changes
to

to a chrysalis, the skin dries round it, and i assumes an oval form, of a reddish colour, which, lit ten days more, produces the pcr fect fly.

The fourth genus is Tabanus. These insects are nourished with the blood of horses and cattle. During the summer heats, especially in the middle of the day, they are extremely troublesome, piercing the skin of large animals with the lancets of their trunk, in order to suck the blood; which causes such intolerable pain, that the cattle gallop about as if they were dis tracted. They abound most in damp woods and meadows. The largest of the British

species is the Tabanus bovinus, or great Uorsc

fly. It is sometimes inch long, and is of a greyish colour, marked down the back by a row of white, triangular spots.

The Tabanus pluvialis is about the size of a window-fly, of a dullish brown, the wings marbled with numerous whitish specks; and is a troublesome companion in autumn, iar .ticularly on the pproac1i of rain, as it bites any part of the flesh which is uncovered.

The diffirent species of that tormenting in sect, the Gulex, or Gnat, form the next genus. Their larvin are very frequent in standing waters. Nine segments, diminishing in size and length from the head downwards, compose

their

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°a ors. These spku1, intros uccd into the veins, act as purnpsuckers, into which the blood ascends, from the smallness of the capillary tubes. The pain and inflammation are caused by a fluid ejected by the insect. The female deposits her eggs on the water, in groups of two or three hundred) placed toge tiler in the form of a boat. r1110 gnat is Si

posed to feed both on animal and vegetable juices: but it is likely that the latter arc its chief nourishment ; as Reaumur observes, that

of the millions on m:llions which swarm in

marshes uid swamps, it it probable that not one in an hundred has an opportunity

tasting blood.

most is coniiuot OPCIfl n'Uion, LtpI tnd is the

vexatious insects; so that the poit

carceIy dare go abroad, without first smearing their hands and faces with a mixture of tar and cream. But, as every evil in nature is Curn

sera sate d i)y some advantage, so in the present case; for the myriads of giiats that swarm in these regions, with their larvir, that iral shag the lakes, supPlY nutritious toed to the inns merable multitudes of aquatic birds, which, in. their turn, are consumed by the natives.

The Musquito, whose bite, in warm climates., is not oniy troublesome, but sometimes chinger

cus

ous, is supposed to be no other t1 an a variety of the common European gnat.

Cattle are su'bj'ect to the attacks of several:' kinds of insect. You have already seen that the Qestrus and the Tabanus injure them with impunity. We haII now perceive that they are equally liable to the attacks of cvcral other kinds; one of which, the Gonops, s beneficial to tliem in the judgment of Lin naus, by inducing a continual motion, and by this means preventing them from the ill effects of indolence and repletion.

One of these genera s the Empis, v hick has orne affinity in its habits to the Tipul tribe,

The Empis livida is a brownish fly, witty

transparent wings. It frequents

s a+

"' oi1 rye, in some parts of Sweden, by which the country people supposed that the crops were injured; but, as they feed' princi J)aliy on the smaller kinds of flies, it is more probable that they were serviceable to the corn, by ridding it of noxious insects.

Amongst the species of the genus Gonops, is the Gonops calcitrans, so extremely like the common window 4ly, that it is frequently mis taken for it but attentive observation will clearly distinguish it; by its strong, pointei prohocb, stretching forward from a joint at it

lower

FWet part. The attacks of this insect, lye autumn, arc very troublesome, both to man and beast; from both which it sucks blood with its proboscis.

The succeeding genus, .silos, is nearly as long as a hornet, but of a more slender shape; and though of a formidable aspect, is incapa bic of causing much pain. It preys on the smaller insects, and proceeds from a smooth, yellowish white, subterraneous larva, without legs. The larger species is found in the north em parts of Europe; especially in Lpland,

Tie genus Bombilius, or Buzz-fly, has a resemblance to the smaller kinds of humble bees, being thickly covered with ipright, downy hair. They fly swiftly, and are in the frequent habit of hovering over a flower with out settling; vibrating their wings, s if nncer thin mu thur choice, and dirtui ~~ ~ c t t

UlOfl II seen iii spring, in gardens

and fields, and may be easily known by its downy, bee-like body, and its straight, sharp pointed proboscis.

The last genus of this order is the Iiippo bosca. Amongst those o the Euwpean kinds there are but few species: that of the hippo bosca equina, or horse-fly, is the riiost coin mon. it sucks blood from lioracs and cattle,

and..

and u*rttates them greally by tim pain it causes. The hmaie deposits a singk e at distant, ju tervals, w h ich in ay more properly be termed a a pupa, than an cg e, as the. perlhct insect emerges Iroffl i; w.hch is a peculiarity iiot iut.erto remarked in any of those insects we have examined.

Tue iJpp.ohosca aricularia is of a smaller size, and of a dull green colour. It in fis1a the bodies o birds, in a very. troublesome mannor. A nether species is the j)ecoliar inmate of swaflovs, swifts, and martins, and may almost always be found in their nests.

..he Shcep4ick, so frequently seen embedded: in the wool of those animals, is of this genus

its colour is a reddish brown ; and it difiirs ±ion the rest of its congeners, in having no wings. All of this genus aie remarkably te

rt life the sheep4ick, in particular

r3 Unln

flO

in packed 1ceces

I slid I nOW lay aside_ my pen, and, as suu ldne succeeds die shower, prepare lbr a walk. Adieu

LETTER XV

fiwi FELL CIA TO coNsTANCE.

SJrub1en,,

DEAft CONSTANCE,

E are now arrived at the last archer, Arn.aA, the characteristic of which is,

hatthc insects of both sexes, which compose. it, are without wings; though we shall find exceptions to this rule. The Instincts of SOWC of the genera are surprisingly cuuous ; but several of them are amongst the most loath some and disgusting of those insect tribes which humiliate the pride of man, and, at the same time, excite his industry, by enforcing the necessity of the strictest attention to clean fine ss.

There are but few species of the first genw' Lepisina, the chief of which, tno wn in our owu country, is, from its tapering fbrra and silvccy Jauc, called the Wood-fish. Its pii1y appearance arises from a covering of extremely minute, oval scales, which are nearly trans parent, and brushed off with a touch. The

motions

emotions of this creature arc remarkably quick; and, f we examine our stores of sugar, it is not improbable that we may find some of them among it. It has been suspected of destroying hooks, hut it seems doubtful whether it de serves such opprobium.

The Lepisma polypus is of a dusky brown, and, if disturbed, has the power of leaping. It is found on the sea-coasts of many northern regions, under stones, and such-like sub

tans es

The Podura, or Spring-tail, forms the se coud genus. These insects generally lurk in damp places, in sand or gravel pits, under stones or the bark of trees: and one species leaps upon the surface of the water, with great agility, being furnished with a long, forked process, which is doubled under the abdomen, and answers the purpose of a spring.

The Podura aquaCica is not uncommon, and is entirely black. It is a small, gregarious in sect, and may frequently be seen, assembling in thousands., on the ban tcs of pools, ponds, and reservoirs; and sometimes ventures overt on the surface of the water. This concourse of living inscct, on a slight view, has the appearance of grains of gunpowder; but, on a closer examination, their continual skipping notion will convince the spectator that they

arc animated beings. Another species resem bins 1hi exactly, eXcept in ciour, winch is a pure white, and iS equally the inhabitant of damp situations.

The third genus, 7erincs, is the most interesteig of any in this order, from the Cur ions arrangement of its interior (liscipline, and the

relI_cofltrive(l structure of the habitations .i.t

forms, for the preservation of its young, and the security of its stores. The surprising policy observed by this minute insect, has scare re sembiancc to that of bees) wasps, ants, and other insects that live in Communities; but from The accounts of far. Smeathman, recorded in the Philosophical Transactions, who bestow ed much observation upon their habits, in different parts of Africa, it appears that the Terines excels them all. The variety that Nature displays ni every j)art of her works, is very striking in the diflBrent contrivances, or instincts, bestowed on these various tribes of of insects, to effect the same purposes. The nest of the bee, the wasp, aria the ant, have long been the theme of admiration, for their neatness, beauty, order., and regularity but we shall find that those of the Vi ermitos are constructed with still more art, and that the

structure is occasionally varied, to adapt itself

to circumstances,

These

145

and mouth, which before were calculated for gnawing and holding bodies, are converted into two jaws, placed in a strong, horny head, shaped like jagged, sharp awls, designed to piece or cut; for which purpose they are as hard as a crab's claw, and inflict a painful wound, fetching blood wherever they bite.

rIhe next metamorphosis is still greater; the head, thorax, and abdomen, differ almost cn tirely from the same parts in the labourers and soldiers; and the change is rendered still more striking, by the addition of four fine, large, brownish, transparent wings; which has made some naturalists think they should have been arranged in the order Neuroptera, instead of that of Aptera. This remarkable alteration takes place just before the rainy season begins.

In their former state, it is not easy to distinu guish that they have any eyes, having but little occasion for them whilst they live underground; but no sooner are they destined to wander through the air, than they are furnished with two very large ones.

The disposition is iow as much changed as their figure from being one ui the most active, industrious, and fierce animals of their size, they become the niost innocent, helpless, and cowardly, having no means of resistance

u arainst

146

against their numerous enemies. Their num bets make some amends for the vast destruction the race undergoes. It often happens, after the first tornado, that the surface of the earth, and even the waters, are covered with them; yet, in a few hours, scarcely one in a thousand is to be found, that has not lost one or more of its wings. And it is probable, that not more than one pair in several millions, escapes the pursuit of ants, birds, reptiles, or men ; for in Africa they form an article of food. A few, however, are preserved in safety, to lay the foundation of new colonies. A pair of these being found, by some of the labouring insects that are wandering about the surface of the ground, they hail these fortunate ones as their king and queen, and prepare for their security, by immediately enclosing them in a small chamber of clay, adapted to their size; leaving, at first, but one small entrance, just large enough for themselves and the soldiers to pass, but much too small for either of the royal pair to escape: and, when occasion requires it, they increase the number of the entrances, but not their size. So that the same instinct which directs all creatures to the preservation of their kind, incites these labourers to voluntarily undertake time task of providing and defending the parents of a future progeny.

The

147

The queen Termes, like the queen bee, is

the mother of the whole community; and,

about this time, undergoes a most extraordinary change, in the form and size of the abdomen, which enlarges so prodigiously, that, in an 01(1 queen, it will be equal in bulk to twenty or thirty thousand labourers. rrllis receptacle of eggs, previously to this change, was only about half an inch long, and, in tire 'space of two years, sometimes increases to the length of six inches. Its amazing extension is riot its only remarkable quality; for its continual motion resembles the undulating of waves, and causes the protruding of eggs, at the rate 'of sixty in a minute, or eighty thousand in twenty-four hours. The labourers, like the neuters iii a bee-hive, move these eggs a's soon as they are deposited, and carry them to apartments, which I shall call the nurseries. A.s soon as the eggs are hatched, they nurse the young with tender care, and supply all their wants, till they are able to take their share in the labours of the 'community. This account applies particularly to the Termes belicosus.

It is now time to take a view of the interior of one of their vast nests. Each of these buildings has an outward covering and interior apartments. The exterior is one large shell, formed like a dome; large and strong enough

148

to shelter the inner parts from the vicissitudes of weather, and its inhabitants from the invasion of natural or accidental enemies. The interior contains a great number of separate cells, for the residence of the king and queen, the young progeny, and magazines for stores and provisions. The chamber appropriated to the king and queen, is a principal object of their care; being of an oval shape, and placed near the centre of the building. At first it is not above an inch in length; but it is increased in size, in proportion as the bulk of the queen enlarges; who, as we have already seen, in due time requires a cell of much larger dimensions. To make it complete, it is covered with a solid, well-turned, oval arch. This chamber is surrounded by innumerable others, of different sizes and shapes, but all of them arched. Beyond these are the magazines and nurseries.: the former are made of clay, arid are always well filled with provisions; which appear like raspings of wood and plants, but are found to consist of the gums or inspissated juices of vegetables. The nurseries are entirely different from the rest of the apartments, being composed of wooden materials, joined together with gums. These are invariably occupied by the eggs, or young ones: the latter, when first hatched, are as white as snow.

149

It is extremely amazing, as well as curious, to observe the progress of one of these cities The first appearance above ground, is one or two small turrets, shaped like sugarloaves, about a foot high. As the work advances, the number of these turrets is increased, till the base of their hill is entirely covered with theixi. The highest and largest is in the centre and, by filling up the intercais between them they farm, as it were, one. dome. When this cupola is completed, they take away the middle turrets, except the tops, which serve as props to the building, and apply the clay to other pu rsus. The use of the outward shell is not only to protect the interior t'om icnc and heavy rains, but to collect a degree of genial warmth, which promotes hatch in the eggs and cherishing the young.

Thus they frequently enlarge their apart ments, and change their situation ; pulling do wix and rebuilding, as their wants require, with an apparent design and foresight, superior to the general instincts of other insects. The interior building has a flatfish top, without any opening; which would preserve the inner chambers from wet, in case of the outer ones being penetrated by rain. The nurseries are enclosed in chambers of clay, and, at the commencement of the building, do not exceed

a hazcl

a bawl-nut in size; but, in a great bill, are often of a considerable magnitude. In the multitude of apartments, some contrivance is necessary to facilitate the communication with the distant parts of the nest; accordingly, they build a kind of bridge, of one vast arch, which answers the purpose of a flight of stairs, from the floor of the area to some opening on the side of one of the columns which support the great arches, and diminishes the fatigue of those labourers, to whom the task is assigned of carrying the eggs from the royal chamber to some of the upper nurseries.

Their labours are not entirely confined to the interior of their hillocks, but they carry out large subterranean passages, in various directions, and to a great extent. Mr. Smeath man measured one of them thirteen inches in diameter. These subterranean passages or galleries, are thickly lined with the same kind of clay of which the hill is composed, and as scend the inside of the outward shell in a spiral manner; winding round the building till they reach the top, and intersecting each other at different heights, open into the dome or the interior building. From every part of these large galleries, various smaller ones proceed, and form a communication with the different parts of the building. Many of them

descend

151

descend three or four feet perpendicularly among the gravel, from which the labouring Termites collect the finer parts, and working them up in their mouths, convert them into a kind of mortar or solid clay, of which their hills, and all their buildings except their nur series, are composed.

It is difficult to give a European an. idea of the ravages these little creatures occasion: they destroy every substance that can be penetrated by their sharp forceps. They will devour the whole inside of large trees that are beginning to decay; eat through floors; or consume the internal parts of the props of houses, so that the roofs would fall in, were it not for a most extraordinary instinct that prompts them to prevent this ruin to themselves, by filling the cavities they have made with their own mortar; so that the supports of the house, which were wood, become, in effect, stone. No caution is sufficient, in hot climates, against their depre dations. But though so injurious and troublesome, let us not suppose that they do not compensate for their rapacity, by contributing powerfully to the health and comfort of man, by destroying putrid substances, which, in these sultry climates, if left to the gradual pro gress of natural decay, would produce the most baneful effects.

There are several species of them; some 01 which build npon the surface of the ground, whilst others form their habitations on the stems or branches of trce, at a vast height.

The European species do not appear to live together in numbers, but are usually found alone. The most common of these is the Termes p ulsatorius, a diminutive, white insect, that, during the summer months, frequents houses, and is often found in old wainscots, where it causes dismay to the ignorant and superstitious, by a long-continued sound, ex actly resembling the ticking of a watch, which they consider a prognostic of death. It infests collections of dried plants, and is very iijuri ous to them. When viewed in a microscope, the eyes appear large, tuid are of a most beau Ii ml gold colour, divided into inn umcrttble

isuied lenses.

The unusual. length of this letter, renders any apology 1u cc iudng it nnn&cessarv ; there rc I thati mdv av adieu,

.Fi:]icLl.

i jrq r'

L1L41 LLLb

LETTER XVJ.

FELICLI To CONSTANCE. S/rubbcry

PEArL CONSTANCE,

'1E HE next genus, Pediculus, presents a variety of insects that are the annoyance of man, beasts, birds, and even insects themselves; each race of creatures owning one or more species peculiar to their kind, and. proving that animated beings teem in every part of nature. You will easily perceive that I am speaking of the Louse, a creature I would willingly have passed in silence, could I have done so without rendering my work incomplete. 1 shall, at any rate, avoid a description of a creature that you may have seen, though with disgust. It will be sufficient to say, that those which lurk in the hair, are harder and higher coloured than such as prey upon the other parts of the body.

Ihiis noisome insect proceeds from the egg complete, and multiplies in a most rapid prom portion. From the experiments of Mr. Lewen hock, a calculation has been made, that iu

1.i 5 eight

eight weeks a single female would produce five thousand descendants! These humiliating in sects have always been esteemed a kind of pest, and are generally supposed to be the ill con sequence of personal negligence; and of course abound more in the habitations of poverty, where a scanty supply of linen, and the want of other comforts, generate filth. But there are also several memorable instances recorded, both in sacred and profane history, of persons of the highest rank, possessing every accommodation that cleanliness can supply, having been so much infested by these creatures, as to have suffered fatal effects from them; nor could any means be devised to destroy them, and save the sufferer from such an odious death

The genus Gulex, or Flea, succeeds, and though very troublesome and disagreeable, is not quite so odious as the last mentioned. The eggs are very small, of an oval shape, white colour, and a polished surface. In six days these produce a worm-shaped larva, beset with distant hairs, and furnished at the head with a pair of short antenna, and at the tail with two curved forks, but are wholly destitute of legs. Pigeons' nests, and those of other birds arc the receptacles often chosen by the parent for her eggs, where the larve find a rich supply of food in the blood of the young ones. In

less

155

less than ten days they reach their full growth, when they cast their skin, and assume the state of a chrysalis, in which immature limbs are plainly discernible. Before they undergo this change, the larva sometimes enclose themselves in an oval, cotton-like covering. In about the same space of time, the chrysalis undergoes its last transformation, when the complete flea exerts its active powers, and feasts upon the first animal to which it can gain access. It prefers the delicate flesh of women or children, and is observed to avoid that of sick persons. This insect is remarkable for the unusual situation of the two fore-legs, which are placed immediately beneath the head. The antennm are short, hairy, and consist of five joints. Beneath these is the proboscis, which is a strong, sharp-pointed tube,. fixed between a pair of jointed sheaths, rendered still stronger at the base by a pair of pointed scales. The eyes are large, round,. and black. The high polish, of the Shelly armour, which is at once a security and a covering, is admirable. The flea loves to nestle in the fur of dogs, cats, rats, &c. It has an astonishing power of leap ing, in proportion to its size, which is effected by the elasticity of its feet, the articulations of which act like so many springs.

The family Acarus, or Mite, forms the next

genus.

136

genus, and is composed of many species, equally troublesome to the animals they infest ; whether it be the Acarus autuinnalis, or harvest-.dug, that intrudes itself under the skin of a human being; or the Acarus coicoptratorum, that torte meats the omxnon black beetle sometimes in such numbers as to occasion its death. Most of the insects of this genus are very minute; but some are of considerable size, particularly the Tick, which is frequently seen on dogs, and occasionally on cattle, where they adhere closely to the skin by means of a strong, broad, flat-shaped proboscis, edged with sharp prickles. Other contrivances, admirably adapted to the same purl osc, though varying according to circumstances, are bestowed upon the different species, most of which fix themselves tenaciously to the skin of some animal, and sometimes get beneath it ; as in the case of that loathsome disorder the itch, which is supposed to arise from a very minute species of mite, that breeds and multiplies in great numbers

ndcr the skin.

Two kinds annoy the black beetle: one of them, Acarus vcgetans, confines itself to the limbs or wing-shells of the beetle, to which it is fixed by a sort of long tail, resembling a foot-stalk, frm whence it has derived its name.

157

The Cheese-mite, though small and insig

i,iflcant to the naked eye, is a curious object

in the microscope. When the parts are mag
nified, it appears that the body is thickly beset
with bristles, that are bli bed on each side with
sharp-pointed spikes, like an car of bariey.
Mites are hatched from very small, white, oval,
eggs, and undergo no oilier transformation
but changing their skin, by whkh a fourth
pair of legs is develeped, that before was not
perceptible. Lcwcnhoek relates, that lie glued
one of these little creatures to a pin, which he
placed before his microscope, for the purpose
of observation; and it lived in that situation,
without food or motion, eleven weeks, though,
when at liberty, it is voracious, feeding greedily
on whatever comes in its way, whether of an
animal or vegetable nature. It seems as if
tenacity of life, increased in proportion to the
low scale of organization and intellect; so that
the more noble the creature, the easier it is
destroyed. The acuteness of feeling probably
diminishes in the same ratio; a sentiment con
soling to humanity, as the smaller and weaker
animals, such as fishes, reptiles, and insects,
are often treated with a degree of contempt
iind cruelty, that is suited only to creatures
devoid of sensation; proceeding, in many in
stances

15g

stances, from want of reflection, rather than a malicious design to torment.

The genus llydrachna has a close affinity to the last mentioned. It consists chiefly of small insects, the largest not exceeding the size of a pea, of a flat, globular shape, that inhabit stagnant waters, and are very quick in their motions.

The Hydrac/ina geographica, so named from the fancied resemblance of its variations to the lines of a map, is a very elegant insect. It is globe-shaped, of a polished black, beautifully marked and spotted with carmine, and the legs curiously fringed with hairs.

The Iiydrachn lay their eggs in flat clusters; and sometimes choose for that purpose the bodies of Nepce, and other water insects.

The genus Phalangium presents a collection of insects of a very disagreeable aspect, having legs of an extraordinary length in proportion to their bodies, which are generally of a form inclined to round or oval. They seem armed for deeds of rapacity, and probably feed upon animals weaker than themselves.

One of them, the P/ialangium renfonn, is a native of the hottest climates, and equals most of the largest spiders in size. The legs are very long, and the palpi or claspers are strongly fortified on the inside with sharp, curved

spi ness

159

spines, resembling teeth, and undoubtedly de. signed for the same purpose. The first pair of legs are much longer than the rest, and, from their slenderness, have the appearance of an tenn,

The Shepherd Spider and harvest Man, are of this genus, improperly classed, by popular mistake, amongst spiders, though they differ materially from them.

The real Spider, Aranea, forms the next genus, and it is so extensive, that it is divided into several sections, marked by the shape of the body, or the position of the eyes; which latter are eight in number, situated on the upper part or front of the thorax, and so placed, as to enable their owner to see its prey in every direction, though its head is immovable.

in the season of autumn, the Aranea diadema abounds in gardens. Its general colour is a deep chesnut, and the abdomen is beautifully marked with round, white spots, in a form somewhat like a diadem. This spider, after having found a convenient place of shelter, t'orms a large, thick web of yellow silk, in which it deposits its eggs, enclosing the round web, for greater security, with one of a looser texture. At the tip of the abdomen are placed five papilke or teats, through which the insect draws its thread. Each of these has a vast

number

160

number of' openings, some say a thousand, through which issues the clammy substance that forms its threads, so that every thread consists of a multitude of finer ones. rIlIle fangs or piercers, with which it wounds its prey, are strong, curved, sharp-pointed, and furnished on the inside, near the end, with an oblong hole, through which it discharges a poisonous fluid into the wound the point has made. The feet have each two claws, provided on their under side with several parallel spines, resembling the teeth of a comb, with which the creature disposes the threads of its web with the greatest regularity. Notwithstanding the beauty of this spider, there is an appearance of malignity and ferocity in its aspect, common to the whole tribe, that is extremely forbidding.

The Tarantula, of which you have heard so many incredible tales, all of them discarded by the rational examination of modern philosophers, is a native of the southern parts of Italy, and is generally found on dry and sunny plains. It is of a great size, and of a brown coIoir, marked on the back of the abdomen by a row of three-cornered black spots, with white edges.

The Aranea a~uatica is a middle-sized
apecies, of a deep chesnut colour, residing
entirely

entirely under water, where it forms a small tissue or web, confining a proper guar Ulv of air; and it sometimes avails itself of the acco' modation of an empty shet, which it closes with a slight web across the mouth.

Aranca subterranea, or Cellar Spider, is armed with strong pincers; but the wound it inflicts is not dangerous. In this temperate climate, it digs a hole in the sand, lines it with silk to keep it from falling in, and lies in ambush for its prey, upon which it frequently darts at the distance of two feet.

,I cannot dismiss this genus, without rnen honing the enormous spider called Aranea evicularia, or Birdcatcher, which is foutnd is many pads of the East Indies und Soumh .tmerica, where it resides among trees, lying u wait fbr small birds, which it seizes and destroys by wounding with its fangs, and afterwards sucking their blood. This hideous insect is very large, covered with 1.iair, and of a nfl! form (1 usky brown.

pile •s prey upon all yeaker insects, very frequently upon their own species; and, iu their turn, become the victims of wasps,.

spheges, and ishneuinons. They change their skin. Birds are very fond of the cg-hag ct spiders, as well as the young that they:

COUt 1L11

162

An attempt was made by M, Boo, a French

man, to establish a manufacture of spider's

silk; but, after many experiments, it was deemed impracticable, as it required twenty eight thousand cods to make one pound of silk; and, as none but the females split those cods, it was necessary to breed a much greater number of spiders. But such is their car oivo roes disposition, it was impossible to prevent their preying upon each other, though they were provided with the soft substance of fresh quills, which seems to be a suitable food for them. M. Bon, however, succeeded so far as to obtain two or three pair of stockings and gloves of this silk, which were of an elegant grey colour. And, could he have carried his scheme into execution, there would have been several new genuine colours iii silk; such as grey, white, sky-blue, and coffee colour; whereas, the silkworm yields only different shades of yellow.

The flight of spiders is a peculiarity that deserves notice, and seems to be the privilege of the young alone. In the autumnal season, these aerial voyagers ascend some slight eminence, and, turning themselves, with their heads towards the wind, throw out several threads, and, committing themselves to the gale, they are carried to a prodigious height.

flurinsr

During their excursions, we may suppose that they are employed in catching such minute winged insects as they cannot find nearer the surface of the ground; and, when wearied, contract their limbs, suffering themselves to descend, with a gradual motion, till they reach a place of security.

Spiders frequently change their colour, which varies much according to season, sex, and age: but they are most brilliant in autumn, when they arrive at their greatest magnitude, and are in their height of vigour, which may be attributed to the plentiful supply of their prey, which abounds at that season.

From my account, you will perceive that no harm is to be apprehended from the spider's of our favoured isle; therefore, I trust that your good sense will dismiss all foolish fears, or affectation of them, at the sight of these insects; because few things mark greater narrowness of mind, than fear where (here is no danger, or the trifling art of feigning timidity, which sometimes disgraces the weakest of our sex, in order to excite notice. Believe me, dear sister, ever yours,

FELICIiL

LETTER

LETTER XV1L

ro Coysrivci.

Shiubbery

Mv DEAREST CoNsTANCE,

'IHE task of writing to you is so agreeable, That a am always 1)leaseci to find a motive for taking up my pen br that p1rIJOse. The plea of giving on a sketch of the science ot Entomology, as furnished me with an excuse for ftequcutly tndulging myself in this. innocent gratification, in which, I am per suacleci, the pleasure is mutual. tinder this impression, I the more readily proceed with the remaining genera of the seventh order;r consisting, chiefly, of insects that are neither engaging in figure nor disposition.

The Scorpion is the dreaded inhabitant of warm climates, particularly Africa, where it attains to a larger size, and the poison of its sting is more malignant, than elsewhere; occa sioning always painful symptoms, and some times death. Its form has some resemblance to that of a lobster; it being furnished with

claws,

claws, and small jointed legs. The colour varies in individuals, from a dark, glossy brown, to a reddish or yellowish line. Its tail is armed with a sting, which inflicts the wound, that is afterwards inflamed by a poisonous fluid emitted from two small orifices on each side the tip of the sting. This creature is very prolific, bringing forth a living progeny of fifty or sixty at a birth. r u he young ones are white at first, but shortly require the hue of their parents. It is generally found in neg lected places, hiding itself beneath stones, wood, &c. and sometimes is an unwelcome visitor in houses. its habits are cruel and ferocious; and its favourite food is the spider, which it dismembers withiout mercy, and tlieii feasts upon its vitals.

The genus Cancer, or Crab, presents a greau variety of species, differing from each other in shape, size, and colour ; and includes the coma mon Crab, the Lobster, the Crawfish, the Prawn, and the Shrimp. 111 one particular, liow ever, they all agree; they cast their shells from time to time. 'I'he animal, aware of what is

going to happen, retires to some place of secu

rite , till its new covering, which at first is little more than a membrane, is hardened into a shell. Some species are not provided with shells, but arc dependent for.a coat of defence,

on the chance of finding a shell deserted by its

original inhabitant, accommodated to their size.

Of these, the Cancer Bernardus, or Hermit

Crab, is a striking example.

There is another peculiarity for which this race of animals is remarkable. The loss of a limb, which to most other creatures is an irre parable misfortune, is to them a matter of small moment; since a short time is sufficient to perfect the growth of another, in the place of that which accident lias torn off. But it is observed, that these new limbs are smaller than the old ones.

When they are rendered defenceless by the loss of their shell, they are exposed to the

attacks of many enemies; particularly the different kinds of marine polypus, which prey

upon them. These creatures seem aware of their danger at this period, by placing a hardshelled crab as sentinel, to warn them of any cause for alarm. The hard-shelled crab is generally a timid animal, and, if he has no other means of escape, pretends death, and contrives to sink beneath the sand, leaving his eyes alone exposed: but on these occasi€ms lie he acquires courage, and defends his charge bravely.

The instincts of the Land-Crab are very cu
rious. At a certain season, they assemble in
vast

167

vast multitudes, and emigrate from the tip lands towards the sea-shore: when arrived there, they deposit their spawn in the water, and then return to their usual haunts. Selfpreservation is the grand law of animated beings. If. one of this numerous company falls lame, or meets with an accident, his fellow-travellers devour him, that he may not be an impediment to their journey.

Most of the genus are very prolific. The Common Lobster is said to produce upwards of twelve thousand eggs each time of laying. Some of the foreign species are beautifully coloured and variegated.

nbc habits of the common lobster may serve as a specimen of the general manners of its congeners. It selects the clearest water, and delights to fix its station at the foot of rocks, that afford it shelter. Its breeding season is early in the summer. The eggs are deposited in the sand. When first hatched, they look somewhat like tadpoles, but gradually assume their complete form.

Most of the insects belonging to the genus
J'lfonoculus inhabit the water, and are exceed
ing small; though the JWonoculus Poljphernus,
or King Crab, is the largest of the crustaceous
tribe; the body measuring, sometimes, two feet
in length. It is found in the Indian ocean,
and

16S

and a pair of them generally swim together its shape is flat and circular in the front, growlug gradually smaller towards the hind part, where it terminates in a long, taper, pointed tail. Its colour is a yellowish brown; and its eyes, contrary to their usual situation in the

other species, of being near together, in this are placed very distant from each other. 'They are formed like a half moon, and are fixed on a kind of pedicle, under the covert of a thick shell, and, like the eyes of (lragonthes and SOfl1C other insects, are composed of innumcra ble globules, each, probably, possessing the power of a single eye.

The Monoculi arc both oviparous and vivi parous. They live in stagnated waters; where some species feed upon plants, whilst others are nourished with the blood of fishes, to which they firmly attach themselves. They swim, or rather spring upon the surfiice of the water, with a very nimble motion, and are never at rest, whether rising to the top, or sinking to the bottom of the pool. When the droughts of summer have dried up the water, they lie i•n a

torpid state till the renewal of their favourite

element restores them to life and enjoyment.

The Monoculus puiex, or Waterfiea, abounds so greatly, as sometimes to discolour the water. rillOugIl not longer than the tenth of an inch,

its

its construction is curiously adapted to its necessities. The body is enclosed in a bivalve, transparent shell, which, when examined by the microscope, appears like fine network. On each side of the head is a strong, transparent, jointed area, forked, and terminating in several branches; which enables it to move in any direction, by waving it as a bird does its wings.

The genus (miscue, popularly called Wood.. louse, contains but few species. They are found in houses, gardens, and under the bark of decayed trees. It is too well known to need a description of its figure. The Armadillo is sometimes used in medicine; and, when alarmed, has (lie faculty of rolling itself UI) into the form of a brown pea; the scales of its back sliding over one another, like those of the quadruped of the same name.

The Oniscus aquaticus is found in pools, small rivulets, especially springs, and sonictimes in the sea. llhey are good swimmers, and differ from those that inhabit the land, by bringing forth their young alive.

The foreign species of the genus Scolopendra,
or Centipede, are formidable insects, inflicting
a very painful wound. They infest many
parts of Asia, Africa, and South America;
and, as they often creep into houses, the in
habitants

170

habitants secure themselves from these diner ous enemies, during the night, by placing thern feet of their bed-posts in vessels of water.

Scolopendra forficala is the largest species

found in our island, and is frequently seen in moist places ; such as decayed wood, beneath stones, garden pots, &c. It has a fine polish on its skin, which is nearly of the same colour as that of a chesnut. On each side it is furnished with fifteen legs, which enable it to move with agility and elegance.

One species, Scolopendra electrica, when disturbed, emits a phosphoric light of consider ble brilliancy. As this appearance has not been noticed whilst the creature is at rest, we may suppose it arises from a voluntary act, designed as a defence, or a mark of hostiiity

The last genus, Julus, has a near affinity with the Scolopendrw, in figure and habits; but differs from them in having a round, instead of a flat i)ody ; and having two pair of feet to each ring, whilst the Scolopendrw have only one. The mouth is armed with toothed jaws, of a curved shape, whkh have a formidable appearance; but the creature, when touch

ed, seems to rely fr safety on its facility of rolling itself up in a flat spiral, with its minerows feet turned outwards, and, at the same time, inclined towards the ground.

The

171

The Julus sabulosus is very common in th soft mould of hollow trees. The young, when first hatched, are of a whitish hue, though they gradually acquire a colour approaching to black. At that time, three pair of legs only appear: in a few days the number is increased, and, by the time the insect has attained maturity, amounts, on each side, to an hundred and twenty.

We have now gone through the seven orders of insects, and, you must agree, that they present a curious and surprising display of harmony, variety, beauty, and contrivance, in their structure; the most extraordinary diversity in their metamorphoses; and the most interesting design in their habits, whether considered with reference to providing for their young, defend ing themselves from their enemies, or laying snares for their prey. Notwithstanding so much has been discovered of the wonders of this tiny order of beings, by the patient invest igation of naturalists, assisted by the microscope, it cannot be doubted that a great many surprising instances of the exquisite wisdom which has formed them, and established the laws by which they are governed, elude our search; and that there still remains a wide field, for the attentive observation of those who delight t look through Nature up to Nature's

i2 God.

172

God. Those who have node the deepest r searches into the mysteries of creation, are the most sensible that numberless hidden springs lie beyond the reach of their comprehension; and, as science advances, this imperfection is more clearly perceptible. But, so far from being discouraged by this consideration, we should be stimulated to fresh exertions; cer tam, if we fail of our object, of increasing our knowledge, and exciting new motives for adrni ration and love. Vanity alone can induce a man to be satisfied with his own discoveries. It is said that Buffon caused the following pre sumptuous boast to be inscribed on his own statue: "A genius equal to the majesty of nature." But, says that eminent naturalist, Sir James Edward Smith, a single blade of grass is sufficient to confound his pretensions.

The wisdom and power displayed in the formation of the visible objects around us, cone inand our admiration ; whilst the benevolence so strikingly apparent in the provision for the enjoyment of the lowest order of animated beings, calls forth our gratitude, love, and

praise. The animalcule, that is too minute to

he discerned by the naked eye; the polyp us,
whosc nature approaches so nearly to that of
vegetables, that, when divided into several
pieces, each piece, like the cuttings of a plant,
becomes

i73

becomes a complete individual of its original kind, enjoys a degree of happiness proportioned to its capacities. Flow deeply it is to be rc gretted, that this benevolent system should ever be interrupted by the thoughtlessness or wanton cruelty of man; and yet bow frequently do we see the most unnecessary barbarity inflicted on all the tribes of animals that fall under his do minion The first lesson I would teach a child, is humanity towards every thing that has feel ing; for I am confirmed in the opinion, that spinning cockchafers, pulling off butterflies' wings, and killing flies, have hardened many a young heart, and prepared the way for the most atrocious crimes

The expectation of your return to our home circle, reconciles the departure of summer, and leads me to anticipate great pleasure in passing the long winter's evenings, in recapitulating the little knowledge we have gained in the interesting science of Entomology; for which purpose I have prepared a table of the orders and genera, which I enclose, as an assist ance to your memory.

Believe me, with every sentiment of tender affection, ever yours,

ARB ANGMENT

ARRANGEMENT OF INSECTS
INTO

rber, an enva,

:CL4SS.

INSECTS.

Antenna two. Legs six, or more. They breathe through lateral spiracul,; and are divided into orders,

from the circumstance of their having or wanting wings, and from the number and substance of which

those parts are composed.

Insects are divided into seven Orders.

1st. COLEOPTERA. 2d. HEMIPTERA. 3d. LEPIDOPTERA. 4th. NELJROPTERA. 5th. LIYMENOPTERA. 6th. DIPTERA. 7th. APTERA.

1. COLEOPTERA,

176

L CoLEoPTE1A,

Consists of insects which have four wings: the upper ones are called elytra, or wing-cases. They are of a hard, horny substance, and meet on the upper part of the body, in a direct line.-Beetles, &c;,

. HEMIPTF A,

Which have four wings: the upper ones (elytra) resemble strong vellum or parchment. They cover the body horizontally. The inner margins extend the one over the other, not meeting in a direct line, as in the Coleoptera Beak curved downwards.-Cricket, &c.

3. LEFIDOPTERA.

Having four wings, all membranaceous, or covered with scales, fixed upon them like tiles upon the roof of a house; these, when magnified, appear like feathers, Tongue or trwik spiral. Body hairy.- Butterfly

moth.

4. NEUROPTERA.

Four wings, membranaceous, but naked; they appear like net-work. No sting.- -Dragon-fly, &c.

5. HYMENOPTEItA.

Four membranaceous wings, which arc naked. The tails of the females are armed with a sting.-Bee, &c.

6. D1PTERA

Having only two wings, and are furnished with poisers or balancers, (called halteres,) instead of under wings.-FJy, &c.

7. ApTERA.

:77

7. APTEILA.

Having no wings in either sex at any period.-. Spiders, &c.

THE SEVEN ORDERS AE SUBDIVIDED INTO
GENERA.

1st. Order, Coleoptera, contains the following
genera.

1. Genus Scarabaus. Beetle.

Antenna clavated, with a fissile tip. Legs generally toothed. Body thick and compact.

. Lucanus. Staff-beetle.

Antenna clavated, with compressed tip, divided into lamelke on the inner side. Jaws stretched forward, and toothed,

8. Dermestes. Leatherchafer.

Antenna elevated, with three joints, perfoliated. Thorax convex. Head withdrawn at pleasure beneath the thorax,

4. Ptinus. Ptinus.

Antenna fihiform. Joints towards the end longest. Thorax roundish, concealing the head.

15 5. luster.

178
5. .,moister. Hister.

Antennae broken in the middle, with a solid bulb at the end. Head retractile, Fore-legs toothed.

6. Gyrinus. Glimmer-chafer.

Antenna clavated, stiff, shorter than the head. Eyes (apparently) four, two above and two below,

7. Pausus, Pausus.

Antennae of two joints, the upper large and hooked Head stretched forwards. Wing-sheaths flexile.

8. Byrrhus. Byrrhus.

Antenna clavatec, solid, compressed.

9. Sylphs. Sylphs.

Antennae thickening towards the tip. Head pro sninent. Thorax margined.

Antenna knotted, enlarging towards the end, Thorax and wing-sheaths margined.

11. Goccineila. Lady-bird.

Antenna knotted and truncated. Palpi longer than the antenna. Body hemispheric. On each foot three joints.

12. Ghrysomela. Chrysomela.

Antenna knotted, and enlarging towards the tips Thorax margined. Body oblong.

10. Cassida.

Helmet-beetle.

i. Jiispa

13. Hispa. 'Hispa.

Antennae spindle-shaped, situated near to each other 'at the base, between the eyes. Thorax and wing-shells generally covered with spines.

14. Bruchus. Bruchus.

Antenn liliform, gradually thickening. Head drawn back. Wing-shells shorter than the abdomen.

15. £1urculio. Weevil.

Antenna clavateci, and fixed in the snout, which is prominent and horny.

16. 4ttelabus. Attelabus

Antennae thickening towards the tip. -lead narrow behind.

17. cerambix. Cerambix.

Antennae jointed, and tapering to the end. Thorax either spiny or bulging. Wing-sheaths long and narrow. Body oblong.

18. Leptura. Leptura.

Antennae tapering to the end. Wing-sheaths nar.. rower towards their extremity. Thorax of a roundish and slender form.

19. Necydalis. Necydalis.

Antennae setaceous. Wing-sheaths smaller, shorter, or narrower than the wings. Tail simple. 2O. L.ampyris.

180

20. ramp yris. Glow. worm .

Antenna flu form. Wing-sheaths flexible. Thorax flat and semi-orbicular, surrounding and concealing the head. Abdomen, with the sides plaited into papillae. Female (in most species) wingless.

21. cantharis. Cantharis.

Antennae taper. Thorax margined, shorter than the head. Wing-sheaths flexible. Abdomen plaited into papillae.

22.. later. Skipper.

Antenna taper, lodged in a groove under the head and thorax. Body oblong, with a spine situated beneath the thorax, that enables the insect to skip with great force.

23. Gicindela. Sparkler.

Antennae taper. Jaws pronli neat, denticulated Eyes prominent. Thorax roundish and margined.

24. Buprestis. Cow-bprnei'.

Antennae taper, length of the thorax. Head half concealed.

25. Dytiscus. liver.

Antenna setaceous. Hind feet hairy, formed for swimming, and armed with small claws.

26. Hydrophilus. Hydrophil.

Antenna increasing in size towards the end, with a perfoliated head. Hind legs hairy, and formed for swimming.

27. Carabus.

27. carabus. Bull4iead. .Antennae taper. Thorax and wing-shells margined, the former somewhat heart-shaped.

28. Tenebrio. Darkling.

.Antennae monilifortn, the last joint rounder than the others. Thorax margined. Head stretched forward. Wing-sheaths rather stiff,

29. MPlot. Blossom-eater.

.Antenna moniliform, the last joint oval. Thorax roundish. Wing-sheaths soft. Head gibbous, and bent downwards,

O. Mordella. The Nibbler.

.Antenna filiform, serrated. Head bent downwards, Feelers compressed, clubbed, and obliquely truncated. Wing-sheaths curving downwards towards the tip.

31. Staphylinus. Rove-beetle.

Antennae moniliform. Wing-sheaths halved. Wings folded up and concealed. Tail simple, shoving out occasionally two oblong vesicles.

32. Forflcula. Earwig.

Antennn tapering. Wing-sheaths much shorter than the abdomen, Wings folded and covered. Tail furiished with a pair of forceps.

2d. Order,

184
12. Thrips. Thrips.

Antennae the length of the thorax Smut obscure. Body narrow. Abdomen bent up.rds. Wings four, straight and narrow.

3d. Order, Lepidoptera, containing the follow
ing Genera:

1. Papilio. Butterfly.

Antenna clavated, commonly terminating in a knob.. Wings, when at rest, erect. Fly by day.

. Sphinx. Sphinx.

Antennas thickest in the middle. Wings, when at rest, bent down. Flight strong, and commonly in the evening or morning.

3. Phalcena. Moth.

Antennae gradually Jessening from base to tip. Wings, when sitting, in general bent downwards. Fly by night.

4th. Order, Neuroptera, containing the foIiow
ing Genera:

1. Libellula. Dragon-fly.

Antennn very short. Mouth furnished with several jaws. Wings four, extended. Tail of the male forked,

. Ephemera.

. Ephemera. Day/fly.

Antennae very short. Mouth without teeth or feel, Stemmata two, very large, above the eyes. Wings erect. Second pair very small, Tail bristled. Short lived.

3. Fhryganea. Phryganca.

.Antennae longer than the thorax. Mouth without teeth, with four feelers. Stemmata three. Wings in cuinbent, the lower pair plaited.

4. Hemerobius. Hemerobius.

Antenn longer than the thorax, taper, stretched forwards. Mouth prominent, with two teeth and four feelers. Stemmata wanting. Wings deflected, and not plaited.

5. Myrmeleon. Anteater.

Antenna clavated, length of the thorax. Wings de elected. Stemmata none. Mouth furnished with jaws. Teeth two, feelers four. Tail of the male furnished with a forceps, consisting of two straightish filaments.

6. Panorpa. Panorpa.

Antenna longer than the thorax. Snout horny, cylindric, with two feelers. Steinmata three. rrail hi the male, furnished with a claw.

`..r aphidia. Raplildia.

Antenna as long as the thorax, which is of a cylindric form, and lengthened ut in front, Head depressed, horny

.186

Thorny. Mouth with two teeth; four feelers. Stem mata three. Wings deflected. Tail of the finale fur Bashed with a bristle that turns back.

5th. Order, Ifymenoptera, contains the follow
ping Genera:

1. ynips. Gall-fly.

Mouth with jaws, but no proboscis. fiercer, or sting, spiral, mostly concealed within the body.

Tent hredo.. Saw-fly.

Antenna differing. Wings extended, swelled, or inflated. Jaws, but no proboscis. Scutellum, with two distant granioles Sting serrated, between two valves,

3. Sirex. Tailed Wasp.

Antennas filiform, with more than twenty-four joints. Mouth with two strong jaws. Feelers two, truncated. Sting rigid, serrated, projected. Abdomen united to the thorax.

4. Ic/in'eu.mon, Ichneumon.

Antennn with more than thirty joints. Mouth with jaws, no tongue. Abdomen generally joined to the body by a sort of foot-stalk. Fiercer, or sting, within .Jivalve sheath.

i. Sp.h.ex

187

5. Spliex. Savage.

Antenun often joints. Mouth armed with jaws, no tongue. Wings extended, not folded. Sting sharp., concealed.

6. ch1. Golden-fly.

Antenna fihiform; the first joint long, and the rep

aining eleven short. Thorax joined to the abdomen by a short pedicle. Mouth with jaws, no proboscis. Sting single. Wings flat. Body gilded.

7. Vespa. Wasp.

Mouth with jaws, no proboscis. Upper wings plaitd. Sting concealed. Eyes lunated. Body smooth.

8. Apis. Bee.

Mouth armed with jaws, and furnished with a pro. boscis, enclosed in a bivalve sheath, and inclined downwards under the body. Body hairy. Sting in the female and neutral insects concealed.

9. Formica. Ant.

Antenna filiform. Head large. An erect scale between the 'thorax and abdomen. Mouth with large jaws, and four unequal feelers. Sting concealed; males have none. Males and females 'inged. Neutrals apterous.

10. Mutila. Mutila.

Antenna filiform. Wings mostly wanting. Body downy. Thorax blunted at the base. Sting can.. cealed.

6th. Order,

iss

th. order, Diptera, containing the following Genera:

1. Oestrus. Gad-fly.

Antenna taper, growing from a small point. Mouth simple orifice. Feelers two. Stemmata three.

2. Tipula. Crane-fly.

head long. Feelers curved. Proboscis short, arid bent inwarch Upperjaw like an arch.

3, Musca. Fly.

Mouth formed into a fleshy proboscis, with twQ lateral lips. Palpi none.

4. Tabanus. Tabanus.

Trunk fleshy, terminated by two lips. Palpi, one on each side of the trunk.

5. Gnat.

Antenn, in the males, feathered. Mouth, consisting of setaceous piercers, within a flexible sheath.

6. .gimps. Empis.

Mouth with a horny, inflected, bivalve snout, longer than the thorax, with horizontal valves.

7. Gonops. Conops.

Mouth with a long, jointed snout.

8. 4i(us.

189

8. Asilus. Asitus.

Mouth with a straight, horny, bivalve snout. 9. Boinbylius. Buzz-fly.

Trunk taper, very long and sharp, between two horizontal valves, in which are contained stings or bristles.

10. IlippObosca. Iiorsefly.

Antennn like a single hair. Mouth furnished with a bivalve, cylindric, obtuse, and shaking beak. Feet terms Aninated with several claws. Body flat, hard, and

scaly.

7th. Order, Aptera, containing the following
Genera:

1. Lepisma. Lepisnia.

Legs six, formed for running. Palpi movable, Body scaly. Tail furnished with extended bristles.

Podura. Springtail.

Antenu long, taper. Legs six, formed for run nilig. Eyes two, composed of eight small ones. Tail forked, formed for leaping, bent inward under the body.

.. Termes. Terms.

Ant enn'e taper. Legs six, formed for running. Eyes two. Mouth with two jaws.

4. Pediculus.

4. Pediculus. Louse,

Antenna length of the thorax. Legs six, formed for walking. Mouth producing a sting. Abdomen depressed, and appears as if formed of different lobes.

5. Pulex. Flea.

Antennae filiform. Legs six, formed for leaping. Eyes two. Trunk taper, bent, concealing the sting Abdomen compressed.

6. Acarus. Mite.

Legs eight. Eyes two, situated on each side of the head. Feelers two, jointed, leg-shaped.

7. liycfraclina. Hydraclma.

[lead, thorax, and abdomen united. Feelers two, jointed. Eyes two, four, or six. Legs eight, formed for Swimming.

8. Plialangium. Phalangium.

Antenna fixed to the fore-part of the head, and nade like the feet. Legs eight. Eyes, two on the summit of the head, and two on the sides. Abdomen round.

9. Aranea. Spider.

Legs eight. Eyes eight. Feelers two, jointed; the
tips of which, in the male, distinguish the sex. Mouth
furnished with two hooks. `Abdomen terminated by
papilla,

191

papill, or teats, through which the insect draws iv thread,

Scorpio. Scorpion.

Antenna, or palpi, like claws, on the head.. Legs eight. Eyes eight ; three on each side of the thorax, and two on the back. Tail long, jointed, and termi' hated by a curved piercer. On the under side, two toothed processes, resembling combs.

11. Dancer. Crab

Antenme four, beneath the eyes. Feelers six, un equal in length. Legs eight, sometimes six or ten; besides twe Tirms, terminated by claws. Eyes two, movable; generally projecting, or placed upon a stalk Tail; ointed, unarmed.

12. Monoculus. Monocu1us

Antennae used in swimming and leaping. Feet made for swimming. Body covered with a shell. Eyes fixed in the shell, and, in most species, very near one another.

13. Oniscus. Oniscus.

Antenna taper and bent. Legs fourteen. Body oval.

14. Scolopendra. Centipede..

antennae taper. Legs numerous, equal to the number of the segnents of the body on each side. Feelers two, jointed. Body depressed.

15. Julus.

192

15. Julus. Ju1tis

Antenna beaded. Feelers two, jointed. Legs nu merous; twice as many on each side, as the segments of the body

SPECIES

The next division is into Species, which area extremely numerous ; as is shown in the genus Ichneumon, which is supposed to contain twenty-seven species. The Lepidopt era order has but three genera; yet Harris gives above four hundred, of British species alone, in these three F

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CLASS

ACC. No.

S 5

BOOK

LIBRARY OF
CAR-N_1 G1E MUSEUM

PJTTsI3uRoI, 1 NNSYLVANIA.

EHRMAN BEQUEST

EXPL4NATION OF TIlE PLATES.

PLATE I.

INSECTS.

ist. ORDER. COLEOPTERA.

Fig, 1.

Hercules Beetle.

Cockchaffer. '

fO 3 4 . ,

Stag Beetle. '

Dermestes lardarius,

Ptinus pectinicorni.

Head of ditto, magnifid.

Dermestes pellio. Ditto, magnified.

Antenna of ditto, map S,) nified.

Antennae of ditto, magnified. Wing of ditto, magnified. Leg, &c, of ditto, magnified.

DIRECTIONS TO THE BINDER.

Plates 1, 2, 8, 4, to be folded to face their Explanations, and placed at the end of sheet B.

Plates 5, 6, 7, 8, at the end of sheet C. Plates 9, 10, 11, 12, at the end of sheet P.

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7 .

F. 1. , 2.

_/' 3.

/ 4.

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14.

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PLATE IT.

Hister unicolor.

Ditto, under side.

Gyrinus natator, natural size Ditto, magnified. Larva of ditto, magnified. Head of ditto, magnified. Pausus sphroceros. Ditto, magnified. Head of ditto, magnified. Pausus microcephalus Ditto, magnified.

Head of ditto, magnified. / Byrrhus pillula.! Silpha Germanica. Cassida virides.

Coccinella septempunctata. / Chrysornela populi./ /'' " Larva of ditto.

Small British Chrysome1.

Hispa atra, nified,

Bruchus P1SI.,/

Curculio nuctim, o Neat-weevil, and larva.

natural size, and slightly wag

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