B 3 275 DOS CTOR ANTS,BEES,DRAGON-FUES, EARWIGS,CRICKETS,ANDFUES. BvW. H.BATH /Ji ONE SHILLING SOI ICIENCE Kayser VETEBIJ Cadiot DON. Diseases - Our Canine Companions - .... Rute (P. M.). The Cat - ZOOLOGY. Clans and Sedgwick. Text-book of Zoology (vol. i. 2 is., vol. ii. i6s.) ........ Kirby(W. F.). Text-book of Entomology - - - Lindsay (B.). Introduction to Zoology - - [shortly Tutt (J. W.). The British Noctuae. 4 vols., each net. --- Melanism in British Lepidoptera - ... s. d. i 6 3 6 10 6 6 o 21 O TOO O 8 o 6 o 10 6 6 o 2 O 9 o 18 o 7 6 3 6 18 o 2 6 7 6 3 6 2 6 37 o 10 6 7 o 2 6 WATKINS & DONCASTER 36, STRAND, W.C. Every de for Entomo Wire or Umbrella I cane), 35. 9 is. 6d. Zin nested, 4 Pocket Lan Tin (with t Store Boxei complete S( Larva Boxe 5S. Finest S Birds' Eggs Throughc pupae of B the gigantic Collectioi arranged. New and Label Lii of British L free. One each A magnificent" assortment of .Preserved Caterpillars Always in Stock. Birds and Animals stuffed and mounted in the best style by- skilled workmen on the premises. THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA PRESENTED BY PROF. CHARLES A. KOFOID AND MRS. PRUDENCE W. KOFOID est make d 2s. 30 : (wire or ., is. and ip Boxes, per oz. Sugaring , is. 6d. om 5d. ; and 145. 43., and Beetles, k of live ncluding led and bel List d , post A full Catalogue sent post tree on application. (3) Collector Series. Each Volume fully illustrated with practical woodcuts, and bound in flat cloth, extra, 1s. each (post free, 1s. 2d.). " They contain just the kind and amount of information required. . . . It is not easy to understand how works like these, written by men of science in the various departments, can be made a commercial success. Certainly nothing but the enormous circulation which they well deserve can render them so. " Knowledge. "We have seen nothing better than this series. It is cheap, concise, and practical." Saturday Review. " We are glad to call attention to this excellent series of handbooks, which deserve to be widely known. . . . We are glad to see the staff of the British Museum thus coming forward to make popular the stores of learning which they have. . . . The illustrations are uniformly good far better than in many expensive books." Academy. ANTS, BEES, WASPS AND DRAGON FLIES. W. H. BATH. BIRDS. H. A. MACPHERSON, M.A. BOOK COLLECTING. J. H. SLATER. BUTTERFLIES, MOTHS AND BEETLES. W. F. KIRBY, F.L.S., F.E.S. CHESS PROBLEMS. E. W. RAYNER. COPPER COINS OF EUROPE. F. C. HIGGINS. COINS AND TOKENS (ENGLISH). LLEW. JEWITT, F.S.A. With a Chapter on Greek Coins by BARCLAY V. HEAD, M.R.A.S. COLONIAL COINS. . D. F. HOWORTH, F.S.A. CRUSTACEANS AND SPIDERS. F. A. SKUSE. FERNS. E. J. LOWE, F.R.S., F.L.S. FISHES. Rev. H. A. MACPHERSON. FOSSILS. J. W. WILLIAMS. FUNGI, LICHENS, &c. PETER GRAY, A.B.S. GRASSES. W r . HUTCHINSON. LAND AND FRESH-WATER SHELLS. J. W. WILLIAMS, J. W. TAYLOR, and W. DENISON ROEBUCK. MAMMALIA. Rev. H. A. MACPHERSON. MARINE SHELLS. J. W. WILLIAMS. MOSSES. J. E. BAGNALL, A.L.S. POND-LIFE (Insects). E. A. BUTLER, F.Z.S. POND-LIFE (Algje, Diatoms, &c.). T. S. SMITHSON. POSTAGE STAMPS. W. T. OGILVIE. REPTILES. C. HOPLEY. SEAWEEDS, SHELLS, AND FOSSILS. P. GRAY, and B. B. WOODWARD. SILKWORMS. E. A. BUTLER, F.Z.S. TELESCOPE, THE. J. W. WILLIAMS. SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & CO., LONDON. (4) ANTS, BEES, DRAGON-FLIES, EARWIGS, CRICKETS, AND FLIES. Cfie goung Collector Each Volume is very fully illustrated with practical woodcuts ; and bound in flat cloth extra, Is. each (pest free, is. zd.). " They contain just the kind and amount of information required. . . . It is not easy to understand how works like these, written by men of science in the various departments, can be made a commercial success. Certainly nothing but the enormous circulation which they well deserve can render them so." Knowledge. " We have seen nothing better than this series. It is cheap, con- cise, and practical." Saturday Review. " We are glad to call attention to this excellent series of hand- books, which deserve to be widely known. ... We are glad to see the staff of the British Museum thus coming forward to make popular the stores of learning which they have. . . . The illustrations are uniformly good far better than in many expensive books. A cademy. BUTTERFLIES, MOTHS, AND BEETLES. By W. F. KlRBY. CRUSTACEANS AND SPIDERS. By F. A. A. SKUSE. ANTS, BEES, DRAGON-FLIES, EARWIGS, ETC. By W. H. BATH. REPTILES. By CATHERINE HOPLEY. MAMMALIA. By F. A. A. SKUSE. {Shortly. POND-LIFE. By E. A. BUTLER, F.Z.S SILK-WORMS. By E. A. BUTLER, F.Z.S. MOSSES. By JAS. E. BAGNALL, A.L.S. SEAWEEDS, SHELLS, AND FOSSILS. By PETER GRAY and B. B. WOODWARD. COINS AND TOKENS (ENGLISH). BYLLEWELLYNN JEWITT, F.S.A. LONDON : SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & Co. Cyphocrania Goliath (reduced). {Frontispiece.. THE YOUNG COLLECTOR'S HANDBOOK OF rapn-ea, tats, antr Jf lies (HYMENOPTERA, NEUROPTERA, ORTHOPTERA, HEMIPTERA, DIPTERA}. BY W. HARCOURT BATH. SECOND EDITION. LONDON: SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & CO., PATERNOSTER SQUARE. 1890. y Printed by Hazell, Watson, & Viney, Ld., London and Aylesbury. 832. PREFACE. MOST boys have a fondness for forming collections of various objects, such as Foreign Stamps, Crests, and Coins ; but very few comparatively collect Natural Objects. Now it will be admitted by all that the collecting of Natural Objects, such as Insects, Shells, Plants, Fossils, Minerals, etc., possesses immense advantages over that of Foreign Stamps and the like; for the former, besides satisfying the collecting ambitions, also cultivates the observant and intellectual faculties, while at the same time affording healthful recreation in the fields and woods. Again, a mere collector's province may be exhausted in a few years, whereas the study and observation of Natural History, which are the usual " fruits " of collecting Natural Objects, are practically inexhaustible. Another great advantage which Natural History possesses, is that it may be prosecuted with very little expense, and is therefore a subject which even the poorest person may conveniently under- take. This little handbook is intended to be a " Guide to Collecting Insects," which by way of Natural History, we may remark, is becoming more popular every day in this country. Hitherto, however, there have been very few books published on Entomology for beginners, but for those who wish to go more deeply into the subject than the present brief manual can pretend, we would strongly recommend them to obtain Mr. Kirby's excellent illustrated "Text- Book of Entomology " (Swan Sormenschein & Co.), to which work we are greatly indebted for much valuable and interesting information. M368492 CONTENTS PAGE INTRODUCTION . 9 ORDER HYMENOPTERA . . . . . 4 . 13 ORDER NEUROPTERA . , , . . 34 ORDER ORTHOPTERA . . - , - 52 ORDER HEMIPTERA . ' . . . . - . T 64 ORDER DIPTERA ... .*'"", .86 THE YOUNG COLLECTOR'S HANDBOOK OF Jtttte, im, Slraptt-Jftea, fefoip, tfrirfuta, mb INTRODUCTION. BY the Linnean system insects are divided into seven great Natural Orders namely, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Neuroptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, and Diptera. Of these, the Lepidoptera or Butterflies and Moths, and the Coleoptera or Beetles, have hitherto received the lion's share of attention, though this is less exclusively the case than it was some few years ago. Any one who wishes to commence the study of these two orders now will have to work very hard indeed before he can hope to put anything new on record concerning them. There is, how- ever, a very wide field for research and discovery open to all who will turn their attention to the other groups, and it is with the intention of encouraging the study of these " Neglected Orders " that we have written the present little handbook. The orders which we here intend to treat of are the following : The Hymenoptera, including the Bees, Wasps, Ants, Saw Flies, Gall Flies, Ichneumon Flies, and their allies. The Neuroptera, including the Dragon Flies, Day Flies, Lace- wing Flies, Stone Flies, Caddis Flies, and their allies. The Orthoptera, including the Grasshoppers, Locusts, Crickets, Cockroaches, Earwigs, and their allies. The Hemiptera, including the Bugs, Skaters, Lantern Flies, Frog Hoppers, Aphides, and their allies. The Diptera, including the Gnats, Midges, Crane Flies, Hawk flies, Bee Flies, Breeze Flies, Bot Flies, and their allies. 10 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The number of insects is so large (about 13,000 different kinds are found in our own country alone) that it will be found impossible by any one to collect the whole at once ; and to study them all is completely out of the question. A single insect, indeed, is ample Fig. i. Hoplistomerus Serripes. to occupy a whole lifetime in the elucidation of its life history. Most persons, when they commence .to .study insects, collect indiscriminately everything which comes in their way ; but they soon find the subject too immense for them to grasp as a whole, Fig. 2. Ledra Aurita (Mag.) and they either give up collecting altogether, or else confine their attention to a single group or order of insects. We would recom- mend every young person to make up his mind at the first which INTRODUCTION. 1 1 group or groups of insects he has a special fondness or liking for. Having done so, he will require to know the best means of attain- ing his object namely, the formation of a collection. A few Fig. 3. Aphaena Amabilis. hints, therefore, as to the mode of collecting and preserving insects in general may be of assistance to the young collector. First of all, as to the apparatus necessary for collecting insects. Fig 4. Orthesia Urticae (Mag.) This will be found very simple and inexpensive. A butterfly net is, perhaps, the most useful requisite. An ordinary cane- gauze net will do well. A good stock of chip pill-boxes will also 12 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. be needed. These can be purchased from the shop of any Natural History dealer at about $d. per dozen, nested (in four sizes). For collecting aquatic insects and their larva we shall require a water net, made of fine zinc-gauze, about six inches in diameter, to group about among stones and other rubbish at the bottom of pools and ditches. This instrument should be made so as to slip on and off a walking-stick when required. A killing bottle charged with cyanide of potassium or with chopped laurel leaves completes the outfit. Little need be said as regards the mode of collecting insects, as their habits may be gathered frcm the following pages. They may be found almost everywhere, in woods, fields, gar- dens, in pools, ditches, canals, and rivers, under dead leaves and the bark of trees, among moss and stones, etc., etc. They may also be found at all times of the year; even in the depth of winter some species may be met with. Most insects may be preserved in the same manner as Butter- flies and Moths. They should be set on flat setting-boards, and left to dry thoroughly before being removed. The smaller species may be gummed to cardboard in a similar way to Beetles. In the arrangement of the insects in the cabinet the classifica- tion and order given in these pages may be followed. About half-a-dozen of each species will be found a convenient number to collect. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. INCLUDING THE BEES, WASPS, ANTS, ICHNEUMON FLIES, SAW FLIES, GALL FLIES, AND THEIR ALLIES. The Hymenoptera belongs to one of the most interesting and extensive orders of insects. The structure and habits of the different species which it includes are very various. Their mar- vellous instincts have excited the admiration and wonderment of the philosophers of all ages. They are, indeed, by far the most intelligent of insects, being greatly in advance of any other group known to exist. The Hymenoptera are mandibulate insects, their mouths being formed for biting, and they undergo complete Fig. 5. Cryptus Formosus. metamorphoses. Perhaps the most striking external distinctive character is to be found in the structure of the wings, both pairs of which are membranous ; and another peculiarity of equal importance is the condition of the prothorax, which is reduced to very small dimensions. In the majority of the Hymenoptera the females are provided with stings, which serve many purposes, 14 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. independently of weapons of defence. Many families, however, do not possess stings. Many of the Hymenoptera feed on plants and trees, but probably the greater number are parasitic on other insects. This order includes the bees, wasps, ants, saw flies, gall flies, ichneumon flies, and many other familiar insects. ,\ Fig. 6. Pimpla Turionellae (Mag. The following will show the principal characteristics of each group into which the order has been divided. Tribe i, Aculeata. Generally social insects, consisting of males, females, and neuters. Ovipositor modified into a sting. Larva, footless grubs. Tribe 2, Entomophaga. Mostly parasitic on the eggs and larvae of other insects. Ovipositor used as a borer. Larva, footless grubs. Tribe 3, Fhytophaga. Principally vegetable feeders. Ovi- positor used as a borer. Larva having six or more legs. TABULAR VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES OF THE HYMENOPTERA. TRIBE I. ACULEATA. Section I. Anthophila. Family i. Aphidae or Honey Bees. , , 2. Andrenidse or Burrowing Bees. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. Section 3. Diploptera. Family 3. Vespidae or Social Wasps. ,, 4. Eumenidae or Bramble Wasps. ,, 5. Masaridae or Solitary Wasps. Section 3. Fossores. Family 6. Philanthidae or Bee-eating Wasps. 7. Crabronidae or Sand Wasps. 8. Nyssonidae or Fly- eating Wasps. 9. Larridae or Black Wasps. 10. Sphegidae or Grasshopper-eating Wasps. 1 1. Pompilidae or Burrowing Wasps. 12. Bembecidae or Scented Wasps. 13. Sapygidae or Bees' Nest Wasps. 14. Scoliidae or Beetle-eating Ants. 15. Thymidaa or Stout-bodied Ants. 1 6. Mutillidae or Solitary Ants. Section 4. Heterogyna. Family 17. Formicidae or Social Ants. TRIBE II. ENTOMOPHAGA. Family 18. Cympidae or Gall Flies. 19. Chalcididae or Little Gall Flies. 20. Proctotrypidae or Bee Parasites. 21. Braconidae or Butterfly Parasites. 22. Ichneumonidae or Ichneumon Flies. 23. Evaniidae or Beetle Parasites. 24. Chrysididae or Golden Wasps. TRIBE III. PHYTOPHAGA. 25. Sericidae or Tailed Wasps. 26. Tenthredinidae or Saw Flies. TRIBE I. ACULEATA. The Aciileata contains the great majority of the Hymenoptera. Their principal characteristic is that the ovipositor of the female in most of the groups is modified into a sting. The larva are footless grubs. This tribe is divided into four sections, which are again subdivided into seventeen families, each of which it is our intention to discuss in their proper order. Section i. Anthophila. Family i, Aphida. This family contains the numerous species of honey bees which are familiar to all of us. They are very 16 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. varied in their structure, colours, and habits. Many species are Fig. 7. Megischus Annulator. social, while many others are solitary. The common Hive Bee (Apis mellifica) belongs to the former class. There is, perhaps, Fig. 8. Apis Mellifica (Queen). no insect which has attracted so much notice as this species. Volumes have been written respecting it, and philosophers in all ORDER HYMENOPTERA. I/ ages of the world's history have spent their whole lifetime in the elucidation of its economy. In southern Europe, notably in Italy, a much brighter-coloured and finer insect is found, distinguished especially by having yellow Fig. 9. Apis Mellifica (Drone). transverse bands on the abdomen. This bee was long supposed to be a distinct species, and was described under the name of Apis ligustica, but it is now regarded as merely a variety, This bee has been introduced into all the northern parts of Europe. Fig. io. Apis Mellifica (Worker). Several species of Humble Bees are very common in this country. One of the best known is the Bombus terrestris, the large females of which may attain a length of nearly an inch. This is a large black insect with the extremity yellow. Fig. n. Melipona Anthidioides (Mag.) In another rather smaller species, Bombus lucorum, the ex- tremity of the abdomen is white. Both these species are sub- terranean bees, forming their nests in banks, etc. 1 8 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Of the moss-builders, the best known, perhaps, is the Bombns muscorum, the largest specimens of which measure about two- thirds of an inch long. Another species, JBombus lapidarius, is so called from a pre- ference it shows for making its nests under stones. The end of the abdomen of this bee is bright orange-red. Of the solitary bees a very common black species is Anthophora Fig. 12. Bombus Pratorum. acervorum, which is usually found in abundance in the spring in the neighbourhood of banks and cliffs. The violet Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa violacea)^ which chiefly inhabits the south of Europe, is a very pretty insect with violet- coloured wings. The Mason Bee (Chalicodoma muraria) builds its nest, com- posed of fine grains of sand, very firmly united by a salivary Fig. 13 .Xylocopa Violacea. secretion, upon the surface of walls and similar situations. This species has hitherto not been met with in this country. The Horned Bee (Osmia bicornis] is remarkable for the female having two little horns projecting from the front of her head. This insect usually burrows in sandy banks and cliffs. Another allied species (Osmia hirtd) burrows in wood, whilst two others (Osmia bicolor and aurulentd) select ready-made nests in the shells of the common snails (Helix hortensis and H. nemoralis), ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 19 within the whorls of which they build their cells of gnawed vegetable material. f Fig. 14. Ctenioschelus Latreillii. The Leaf-cutting Bees, which belong to the genus Megachik, are also very interesting in their habits. Fig. 15. Csinia Tunensis. Family 2, Andrenidcz.KM the insects belonging to this family are solitary in their habits. The species are very numerous in Fig. 16. Andrena Collaris. this country. Many of them burrow in the ground, while others have been observed to make their nests in bramble stick. They are usually smooth, black insects, very unlike bees in appearance. 20 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The females have no apparatus for carrying pollen either on the legs or on the abdomen. Section 2. Diploptera. Family 3, Vespida. The Social Wasps, which belong to this family, are very well known everywhere in this country. In their Fig. 17. Polistes Gallica. general structure they resemble the bees, but are usually much more slender in appearance, and also much less hairy. The general habits of these wasps are pretty uniform except in the matter of their architecture, and in this respect they display a remarkable variety. Besides the common Wasp ( Vespa vulgaris) two other species Fig. 18. Nest of Polistes Gallica. found in this country, which build their nests in the ground, follow the same principles in the construction of their nests. The Hornet (Vespa crabo), which is remarkable for its large size, usually builds its nest in the hollow of a tree. Both the hornet and common wasp sometimes build their nests under the eaves of houses or attached to a beam under the roof; and in ORDER HVMENOPTERA. 21 these cases the outer covering of the nest is thinner and more delicate in texture than when the dwelling is exposed to the vicissitudes of the weather. Another common species inhabiting Britain is the Wood Wasp ( Vespa sylvestris), which builds nests suspended from the branches of trees. Family 4, Eumenidce. One of the commonest and best-known species belonging to this family is the Wall Wasp (Odynerus Fig. 19. Odynerus Ovalis (Mag.) parietum), which may be almost constantly seen haunting sunny walls during the months of June and July. It makes its burrows in walls and high banks, while many other allied species form their nests in the hollow stems of brambles. Family 5, Masarida. This family contains the great bulk of the solitary wasps, which, however, are principally inhabitants of warm climates. The Masaridce are a small group of black-yellow belted wasps, which are found in the south of Europe, but not in Britain, two of the commonest species being Celonites apiformis and Ceramius fonscolombi. Section 3. Fossores. Family 6, Philanthida. Most of the species belonging to this Fig. 20. Cerceris Capito. family are black with yellow spots and. bands, and most of them are inhabitants of the warmer parts of the earth. Some of the species provision their nests with beetles and grasshoppers, while 22 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. others attack bees, and are very mischievous, destroying great numbers. Family 7, Crabronidce. This family includes a considerable number of solitary species of wasps. In colour they are generally black spotted and striped with yellow, but many of them are bright red. The typical genus Crabro is a very extensive one, including over 150 species, a great proportion of which are inhabitants of Europe, while even Britain possesses more than thirty. Crabro cribrarius is the largest British species. Its food con- sists principally of gnats and other dipterous insects. This insect and many others burrow in the ground, generally in hard sand- banks. Another species (Crabro brevis) frequents similar situa- tions, and has been known to provision its nest with small beetles. Fig. 21. Chlorion Virid'aeneum. Family 8, Nyssonidce. This family is not a numerous one comparatively. Mettinus arvensis is a black insect, about half an inch in length, with stripes on the abdomen and yellow legs. It provisions its nest with flies, and not being able to capture them by swiftness, runs past them when they are resting in an unconcerned manner till they are thrown off their guard, when they are pounced upon and carried off to the nest. Family 9, Larridce. This family very much resembles the last. The species are mostly small insects, few of them measuring half an inch in length. They are usually black, sometimes with the abdomen red at the base. Family 10, Sphegidce Most of the insects included in this family feed upon grasshoppers, and the manner in which they procure their prey is very curious. In attacking their bulky prey ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 23 they use every endeavour to turn the grasshopper on its back. When they succeed in this they inflict stings in different parts of the underside of the abdomen and thorax, which soon paralyse the victim, which is then dragged to the nest of the ruthless destroyer. Sphex flavipennis is a common species in the south of Europe. Family n, Pompilidcz. Most of the species of Pompilus burrow in sand or sandy soil, and store their nests with spiders and the larvce of insects. One of our commonest species, Pompilus fuscus, is usually about half an inch long, and is black, with the first three segments of the abdomen red banded with black. This insect makes its appearance in the spring, and may be observed in sandy places throughout the summer. Another common British species is Pompilus punctum, which is black in colour. Family 12, Bombicidce. This small family is not represented in \ Fig. 22. Sapyya Clavicornis. Britain, though found in southern Europe. Many of the insects burrow in the sand, scratching a hole with their forefeet like a dog, as observed by Sir S. Saunders in the Ionian Islands. In the daytime they may be seen flying rapidly from flower to flower, and many of them exhale an odour of roses. Family 13, Sapygidce. This is a small family containing only a single genus, with very few species. The species of Sapyga occur in Europe and North America. They are supposed to be parasitic in the nests of bees, but the females of the common European species (Sapyga paced] have been observed carrying small caterpillars, from which Mr. Smith (the great authority on Hymenoptera) justly infers that they are parasitic only to the extent of usurping the burrows made in sandbanks and dead wood by more industrious insects, their own structure not adapting them for the labour of digging. Family 14, Scoliidce. Although this familvis abundant in warm 24 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. climates, we have only two small species belonging to the genus Tiphia in Britain. They are black, with more or less reddish legs, and measure from a quarter to half an inch in length. In south Europe we meet with several large and handsome species, one of which, Scolia hortorum, is black with two yellow bands on the abdomen. Fig. 23. Scolia Hortorum. Family 15, Thymidce. The insects of this family are almost exclusively confined to Australia and South America, where they are very numerous. They are generally of a black colour, with more or less extended yellow markings. They are very stout insects ; in fact, their bloated bodies give them very little resem- blance to any other insects, except perhaps to the Oil Beetles. Very little has hitherto been ascertained respecting their habits, but they are believed to be parasitic. Family 16, Mutillidcz. This family includes a large number of species, probably 1,500, but from the differences presented by Fig. 24. Mutilla Mura (Male). the males and females, entomologists have found it difficult to arrive at any certainty upon this point. The species are spread over all the earth, but are particularly abundant in warm climates, where also, as usual, they attain the largest size and the most beautiful colouring. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 25 One of the best-known species in our own country is Mutilla europ(za t which is about half an inch long, of a black colour, hairy, with the thorax entirely red in the wingless females. Fig. 25. Mutilla Maura (Female). This insect frequents the nests of Humble Bees, and its larva appear to be parasitic upon the larva of the bees. Section 4. Heterogyna. Family 17, FormiridcE. To this family belongs the numerous species of ants, which are social insects, organised after the fashion of the bees and social wasps. The number of species described is probably considerably over a thousand, but the total number must be very much greater if Mr. Bates is correct in his estimate that not less than 400 species inhabit the valley of the Amazon. / Fig. 26. Formica Lignipeda (Male). (Mag.) The habits of the ants are most interesting, and one of our greatest living naturalists, Sir John Lubbock, has devoted much of his time in elucidating their economy. The nests are almost always chambered cavities, hollowed out either in the ground, in walls, and similar situations, or in dead and decaying wood. 26 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. One of the commonest examples in our own country is the Garden Ant (Formica nigra), which may be found everywhere in gardens making its nest in the ground. Another common species is the pretty Turf Ant (Formica flav a}, which generally haunts commons and heaths, casting up small Fig. 27. Formica Lignipeda i, Worker). (Mag.) hills, which serve to throw off the rain ; and this species in some localities makes its nest under stones. The Wood Ant (Formica lignipeda) is another familiar species. A very large group of ants belong to the section MyrmicincR, the best-known species of which are the Red Ants, Myrmica rubra, and their allies. A very minute species which has been introduced into this country, probably from Brazil or the West Indies, is the Horse Ant (Myrmica molesta). It is a very small brownish-yellow Fig. 28. Myrmica Rubra (Male). (Mag.) species, which seems to have been first observed in England in 1828. It takes up its abode in houses, frequently in the neigh- bourhood of the kitchen fireplace, and when it multiplies becomes such a pest as to render the house uninhabitable. Some of the metropolitan districts have been particularly infested. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 2/ TRIBE II. ENTOMOPHAGA. Most of the insects belonging to this tribe are parasitic on other insects. The larva are footless. There are seven families in- cluded in the Entomophaga. Family 18, Cyniptda. This family includes most of the gall flies. The number of species is very considerable. Of the great majority the females pierce with their ovipositor the tissues of plants and trees, and there deposit their eggs, from which the Fig. 29. Cynips Gallae Tinctorise (Mag.) larva are soon hatched. The irritation caused by this intrusion of a foreign body into the tissues produces the galls which are so commonly met with. The galls produced by different species of flies differ greatly in form and structure. Some of them are round and smooth, like Fig. 30. -Smicra Sispes (Mag.) fruits, such as the cherry gall of the oak leaves, produced by the puncture of Cynips quercus-foli. The most singular, however, of all the galls is perhaps the Eedeguar, which is formed on the stems of wild roses by the punc- ture of a small species, Rhodites rostz. 28 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Family 19, Chalcidida. To this family belong many gall insects, principally found, however, in foreign countries. The Chalddidd include a great number of small species, few exceeding half an inch in expanse. Many of these are singular in shape, and others brilliantly metallic ; but, owing to their small size, they have hitherto been studied by comparatively few entomologists. Fig. 31. Thoracamba Furcata (Mag.) Family 20, Proctotrypida. The Proctotrypida are probably much less numerous than the preceding family, but have been less studied, being generally smaller and more obscure in their habits ; in fact, some of them share with several beetles the reputation of being the smallest insects. Fig. 32. Proctotrypes Rufipes (Mag,) Family 21, Braconidce. This family is one of very great extent. Many of the foreign species are rather large and handsome insects, often varied with black and yellow. The best known of the Braconida is perhaps Microgaster glome- ratus, a small blackish species with reddish-yellow legs, which destroys the larva of the common Cabbage Butterflies, round the dead body of which its little yellow cocoons may often be observed. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 29 Family 22, Ichneumonidcz. The Ichneumonidce are rather large and slender insects, and are divided into many sub- families. Fig. 33. Bracon Bicolor. They are a very numerous group. It has been calculated that neirly 5,000 species have been described, but the data generally are very untrustworthy. Fig. 34. Joppa Antennata. The species of Trogus are rather large insects, measuring an 30 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. inch or more in length. They are black with reddish legs and Fig. 35. Evania Appendigaster (Mag.) abdomen, and the wings are sometimes slightly dusky at the edges. Fig. 36. Pelecinus Politurator. In another group, Pimplina, the ovipositor is generally very long. The best-known species is Rhyssa persuasoria, a blackish insect, which measures about an inch in length. This insect is ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 31 met with in fir plantations, and uses its extraordinary ovipositor to drill holes in trees infested by the larva of Sirex gigas, on which its own larva is parasitic. The insect frequently drives its ovipositor so firmly into the wood of the tree, that it is unable to withdraw it, and perishes in this position. Family 23, Evaniida. One of the most familiar insects be- longing to this family is the Evania appendigaster. It is a small black insect, found in the south of Europe, and is parasitic on cockroaches. An allied British species, Fcenus jaculator, is a not uncommon insect found haunting the burrows of Crabronidce, upon which it is probably parasitic. Family 24, Chrysidida. The Ruby-tailed Wasps, or Golden Wasps, as the Chrysididtz are popularly called, are among the most brilliant of the Hymenoptera^ most of the species being either of an intense green, blue, or fiery red. They are small or moderate-sized insects, which are found on Fig. 37. Chrysis Ignita (Mag.) walls or flowers in the full heat of the sun ; for, as a rule, the most brilliantly-coloured insects are diurnal in their habits. As far as their habits are known, they deposit their eggs in the nests of other insects, chiefly Hymenoptera, on the larva of which their own offspring feed. The commonest British species is Chrysis ignita, which is a very variable insect, both as regards size and colouring. TRIBE III. PHYTOPHAGA. The insects belonging to the third tribe of the Hymenoptera are strictly vegetable feeders. There are only two families. Family 25, Siridda, This family includes the insects known as Tailed Wasps. It is not a very extensive family, and its species occur chiefly in Europe and North America, in both of which regions the typical genus Sirex is represented by large species. 32 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The best-known European species which is common in some parts of Britain is the great Tailed Wasp (Sir ex gt'gas), a very for- midable-looking insect, of which the female often measures nearly an inch and a half in length. Fig. 38. Cimbex Luteus. The general tint is black with the antennae, the sides of the thorax and the legs and apex of the abdomen yellow. This insect lives in pine and fir woods, and the female deposits her 39. Lophryus Pini (Mag.) eggs in the woody parts of the trees, into which she bores to a depth of over half an inch by means of her long ovipositor. Fig. 40. Pamphilius Faustus (Mag.) Another species which occurs in this country is the Sirex juven- cus, of a steel-blue colour, but smaller than the former. ORDER HYMENOPTERA. 33 family 26, Tenthredinidce. This is a very extensive family and contains the numerous species of Saw Flies, so called because their ovipositor is in shape somewhat like a saw in appearance. Probably the best-known species is the Gooseberry Saw Fly (Nematus ventricosus], whose speckled and green larva are so injurious in gardens and orchards. This insect is yellowish in colour, and about a quarter of an inch in length. Tenthredo cethiops, a small black species, deposits its eggs upon fruit trees. Many other species live on different kinds of plants and trees. ORDER NEUROPTERA. INCLUDING THE DRAGON FLIES, LACEWING FLIES, DAY FLIES, STONE FLIES, CADDIS FLIES, AND THEIR ALLIES. Next to the butterflies and moths, the Neuroptera (or nerve- winged insects), to which belong the Dragon Flies, Lacewing Flies, Day Flies, Stone Flies. Caddis Flies, and their allies, are undoubtedly the most beautiful members of the insect tribe. Though they cannot compete with the Lepidoptera in point of colouring, it is questionable whether they are not more graceful and elegant in appearance. The order Neuroptera was founded by the great Swedish Fig. 41. Ascacaphus Macaronius. naturalist Linnaeus, and its name has been kept intact since, though the classification of the insects comprised in it has undergone many modifications. The Neuroptera are not a very numerous body of insects compared with either the Cokoptera or Lepidoptera, but they contain some of the largest and most handsome insects known. The order is very well represented in the temperate zones, though the finest species are met with in the tropical parts of the world. Nearly 700 species are known to inhabit the British Isles. In the ORDER NEUROPTERA. 35 whole world their number may be given in round figures at about 4,000, but there is no doubt that this number may be considerably increased. The largest and most handsome species are the Dragon Flies or Ornoptera, one species occurring in our own country, measuring fully four inches in expanse of the wings. The Lacewing Flies (Hemerobiida}, the Day Flies (Ephemeridce), the Stone Flies (Perlid(z\ and the Caddis Flies (Trichoptera), are among the other more conspicuous members of the group, The Neuroptera may be divided into three great sub-divisions, according to certain well-defined characteristics. The modern Fig. 42. Nemoptera Extensa. tendency is to raise each of these sub-divisions to the rank of orders. The Neuroptera may be classified as follows : Sub Order i, Planipennia, or true Neuroptera. Metamorphoses complete, larvae, mostly terrestrial. Sub-Order 2, Trichoptera, or hairy- winged Neuropteia. Metamorphoses complete, larvae aquatic. Wings of Imago clothed with hairs. Sub- Order 3, Pseudo-Neuroptera, or false Neuroptera. Metamorphoses incomplete. The most important distinction between the first two groups and the third is that the former undergo complete metamorphoses, whereas in the latter the transformations are incomplete or imperfect. The latter for this reason are often classified as a separate order. 36 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The Trichoptera are also placed by some entomologists in a distinct order, on account of the peculiarity in their wings being clothed with hairs. They, however, present so many points both in habits and structure, analogous with the true Neuroptera, that we have retained them as a sub- division of the Order. TABULAR VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES OF THE NEUROPTERA. Sub- Order I. Planipennia. Family I. Myrmeleontidae or Ant Lions. ,, 2. Hemerobiidae or Lace \\ing Flies. ,, 3. Mantispidae or Mantis Flies. ,, 4. Sialidae or Sialis Flies. ,, 5. Raphiidse or Snake Flies. ,, 6 Panorpidae or Scorpion Flies. Sub-Order 2. Trichoptera (or Caddis Flies). Family I. Inasquipalpia or Large Caddis Flies. Sub-family I. Phryganeidae. , , 2. Limnophilidse. 3. Sericostomidge. Family 2. vEquipalpia or Little Caddis Flies. Sub-family I. Leptoceridae. ,, 2. Hydropsychidae. ,, 3. Rhyacophilidse. ,, 4. Hydroptilidae. Sub- Order 3. Pseudo~Neuroptera. TRIBE I. ORNOPTERA (or Dragon Flies). Family I. Libellulinae or Great Dragon Flies. Sub-family I. Libellulidae or Libellulines. , 2. Cordulidas or Cordulines. ,, 3. yEschnidae or ^Eschnines. ,, 4. Gomphidae or Gomphines. Family 2. Agroninae or Slender Dragon Flies. Sub-family I. Agronidae or Agronines. 2. Calopterygidae or Calopterygines. TRIBE II. SUBULICORNIA. Family 3. Ephemeridae or Day Flies. TRIBE III. PLECOPTERA. Family 4. Perlidae or Stone Flies. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 37 TRIBE IV. CORRODENTIA. Family 5. Psocidae or Book Mites. ,, 6. Embiidse or Agile Mites. TRIBE V. SOCIALIA. Family 7. Termitiae or White Ants. TRIBE VI. PHYSOPODA (or Thrips). Family 8. Tubulifera. 9. Terebrantia. TRIBE VII. MALLOPHAGA (or Bird-lice). Family 10. Philopteridae. ,, II. Liotheidae. TRIBE VIII. THYSANURA (or Bristle-tails). Family 12. Lepismidse. ,, 13. Campodeidae. 14. Japygidae. TRIBE IX. COLLEMBOLA (or Spring-tails). Family 15. Smynthuridae. ,, 1 6. Papyriidae. ,, 17. Degeeriadae. 18. Poduridae. 19. Amouridae. SUB-ORDER i. PLANIPENNIA. The Planipennia contains the most typical forms of the Neurop- tera. This sub-order is sub-divided into six families, four only of which contain representatives in the British Isles. They are most Fig. 43. Myrmeleon Formicarius. abundant in the tropical parts of the world, where also the most handsome and curious forms occur. Family i, Myrmeleontidcz. The Ant Lions are the most familiar and important members of this family. The common Ant Lion 38 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. (Myrmeleon europczus], which is abundant in sandy places in the south of Europe, is a slender and elegant creature, with large finely reticulated rings. The larva, to which the name of "Ant Lion" properly belongs, is of a stout form and a greyish- yellow colour, covered with warty processes and with hairs. Its Fig. 44. Myrmeleon Larva. food consists of ants and other small insects, which it captures by a singularly ingenious arrangement, namely, by means of a funnel- shaped pitfall which it constructs in the sand, and at the bottom of which it lies. When any unfortunate insect ventures too near,, the Ant Lion sends up a shower of sand, and the victim in its. Fig. 45. Nemoptera Coa. consternation falls down the pit, where it is speedily seized and devoured. Other species of ant lions are known to occur on the continent of Europe, but none hitherto have been discovered to inhabit this country. Family 2, Hemerobiidce. The second sub-family contains the Lacewing Flies, many representatives of which occur in the British ORDER NEUROPTERA. 39 Isles. They are among the most elegant and beautiful of the Neuroptera. The Golden-eyed Fly (Chrysopa vulgaris) is a very abundant and well-known example, but notwithstanding its great beauty it is capable of emitting a very disagreeable odour when handled. This is a delicate green insect with a body half an inch long, and Fig. 46. Chrysopa Septempunctata. which may be seen almost everywhere on warm summer evenings, flying slowly about from tree to tree. The eggs, which are little round or oval bodies like small pearls, are deposited by the female in groups upon the leaves of plants and trees. The larva when fulfed is about half an inch in length. The food consists of plant lice and aphides, and it is thus a very beneficial creature, and should be encouraged by every gardener. The pupa of this insect is enclosed in a cocoon. Between thirty and forty species of lacewing flies are known to occur in our own country. Family 3, Mantispidce. This family contains only one genus Fig. 47. Mantis Pagana. viz., Mantispa, or the Mantis Flies A single species, Mantispa pagana, is common in southern Europe, but does not occur in the British Isles. Family 4, Sialidce. In the fourth family of the Planipennia. the larvce are aquatic in their habits with very few exceptions. The pupa is not enclosed in a cocoon as it is in the Hemerobiida. The single common British species (Sialis lutaria) is a blackish- brown insect, rather more than half an inch in length. It is well known to anglers, and may be found abundantly in the spring 4O HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. and early part of the summer upon walls and palings in the neighbourhood of water, and upon the stems and leaves of grasses and other plants growing in the water or upon its bank. In repose the wings of this insect, as in the Hemerolicida, are laid over the back. They are sluggish creatures, and do not readily take to flight Family 5, Raphiidce. This family contains the curious group of insects called "Snake Flies" or " Camel Flies," which are Fig. 48.- Raphidia Ophiopsis (Mag.) included by some entomologists in the previous family. They have characteristics, however, which entitle them to be placed apart. They have a rather large head, which is attached to a greatly elongated prothorax by a thinnish neck, so that the head has considerable freedom of motion. The species are not Fig. 49. Panorpa Commums. numerous, four kinds only occurring in Britain. The lanw reside under the bark of trees, where they feed upon minute insects. The commonest species is probably Raphidia mega- cephala. Family 6, Panorpida. The Panorpida, or Scorpion Flies, are very curious creatures, characterised above all things by the perpendicularly placed and greatly elongated head. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 41 The larva, so far as they are known, live in the earth, and are like caterpillars in their general form. Five/ species occur in this country, the best known being Fig. 50. Bittacus Tipularius. Panorpa commutns, which may be met with almost everywhere about hedge banks and in lanes. It is about half an inch long. The wings are transparent, with dark brown spots, which are more or less confluent. Another species, Boreus hiemalis, which possesses no wings, is found on the ground among leaves in the winter time. It does Fig. 51. Boreus Hiemalis (Mag.) not exceed one-sixth of an inch in length, and is of a metallic- green colour. SUB- ORDER 2. TRICHOPTERA. The members of this group are the insects commonly known as Caddis Flies, and they are often ranked as a separate order by entomological writers. Nearly 600 species of Trichoptera occur in Europe, of which about half the number are indigenous to the British Isles. The larva are aquatic, and when full-grown prepare for themselves curious dwellings composed of sticks, stones, and other materials 42 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. wherein to pass the pupa state. They may be seen almost everywhere where there is water. The caddis flies may be divided into two families, though the distinguishing marks are so minute that they really ought to be Fig. 52. Hydropsyche Montana. classified as one family only. To Mr. McLachlan we owe many thanks for his researches in this group of insects. Family i, Inaguipalpia. This family includes the largest species of the tribe, and are principally found in northern regions. \ Fig- 53- Marronema Rubiginosa. One of our largest British species is Phryganea grandis, which measures four-fifths of an inch in length, and over two inches in expanse of the wing. It is an abundant insect, of a brown colour, with yellow rings on its antennce, and the anterior wings are ash- coloured, clothed with brown. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 43 The lanw of this group for the most part inhabit quiet waters, ponds, canals, etc. This family is subdivided into three sub-families, viz., Phry- ganeidce, Limnophilida^ Sericostomidce. Family 2, jEguipalpia. This family constitutes a second group, and also contains many species, many of them, however, being very minute insects, some hardly one-eighth of an inch across the wings. They make little cases of silk resembling seeds, to the outer surface of which they attach grains of sand, etc. - The dZguipalpia contains four sub-families viz., Leptoceridce, Hy dropsy chidce, Rhyacophilidce, and Hydroptilida. Of the LeptoceridcB, Molanna augustata may be taken as a typical example, the larva of which lives on the sandy bottom of pools, and is very difficult to detect. SUB-ORDER 3. PSEUDONEUROPTERA. In the third sub-order of the Neuroptera are grouped together a series of insects which present great divergences of character, and really do not belong to the true Neuroptera on account of their incomplete metamorphoses They, however, for the most part, resemble the Neuroptera in the structure of their wings. They are divided into several tribes and many families. TRIBE I. ORNOPTERA OR DRAGON FLIES. To this tribe belong the Dragon Flies, the largest and most beautiful members of the whole order. About 1,500 species have been described from various parts of the world, and of these about fifty are known to inhabit our own country. Their habits are very much alike. The insect passes all the earlier stages of its existence in water. The larva are most voracious creatures, and are undoubtedly the most predaceous of insects: The apparatus by which they capture their prey consists of a peculiar modification of the labium. When full grown the larva crawl up the stem of some aquatic plant out of the water, and after resting there for a longer or shorter time the skin splits open along the thoracic region, and the perfect insect by degrees struggles out of its investment, and when the wings are dried it starts off to continue the same scene of rapine which has characterised its subterranean existence. The perfect insect may be seen hawking about for insects in the neighbourhood of pools in all fine weather during the summer 44 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. and autumn months. In dull weather, however, they usually remain at rest on the leaves of plants and trees, etc. The eyes of Dragon Flies are most beautiful objects when viewed under the microscope ; they are composed of a great number of facets or lenses. In one species of Dragon Fly as many as 10,000 of these facets have been counted in each of its eyes. Besides these compound eyes most dragon flies have additional eyes, called Ocelli, which are situated on the top of the head - r they are, however, quite simple. It is commonly thought by persons who are not naturalists that dragon flies sting ; such an erroneous idea we take the opportunity to correct. The Ornoptera are divided into two principal families. Fig. 54. Libellula Depressa. Family i, LiMlultna.To this family belong all the great dragon flies, mostly thick-bodied insects. It is sub-divided into four sub-families. To the first sub-family, the Libellulidce, many common and familiar dragon flies belong. The best known is what is vulgarly called the " Horse-stinger " (Libellula depressa), an insect about two inches long, with a rather depressed abdomen, which is yellowish-brown, with yellow spots on the sides in the female, and coated with a beautiful violet-blue powder in the male. It may be seen almost everywhere, hawking for flies about rivers and ponds, during warm weather. The second sub-family, the Cordulida, contains four British species, of which the beautiful Cordulia metallica is the typical example. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 45 The jEschnidce. contain some of the largest members found. The great dragon fly (^Esc/ma grandis] is one of these. It is nearly three inches long and four inches in expanse of the wings, and is of a light rusty-brown colour with a few pale markings. Of the Gomphidfz only four species inhabit our own country. Gomphus vulgatissimus is a black insect, nearly two inches long, with yellow bands on the thorax, and a line of the same colour along the back of the abdomen. Family 2, Agronina. This family contains a number of slender-bodied insects. There are two sub-families. The Agrionidce are a very numerous group. The typical form, Fig. 55. Calopteryx Virgo (Male). Agrion pnella, which is a beautiful, slender creature, measures about two or two and a half inches in expanse of the wings. The abdomen of the male is banded with azure blue, that of the female being brassy-black. The Calopterygidce, contain only two British species viz., Calopteryx virgo and C. splendens. TRIBE II. SUBULICORNIA. The second tribe of the Pseudo-muroptera contains a group of insects which are so similar to one another in form that they are all included in one family. Family 3, Ephemeridce. The Ephemerida, or Day Flies, as they are popularly called, are delicate, elongated, soft-bodied creatures, with a moderately small head. The antennae, which spring from 46 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. the forehead below the ocelli, are short and awl-shaped. These insects, which seem to be found mostly in temperate climates, are remarkable for the great delicacy of their structure, and for the extreme shortness of their lives in the perfect state, which seems in general scarcely to exceed a day. Nearly fifty species of Epliemerida occur in this country. The best known is Ephemera vulgata, of which the sub-imago is called the " green drake," and the imago the " grey drake " by anglers. The two-winged Cloen diptera, which, however, is a much smaller species than the foregoing, is also very abundant. Fig. 56. Calopteryx Virgo (Female) TRIBE III. PLECOPTERA. The Plecoptera contain only one family. Family- 4, Perlidcz. The Perlidce, or Stone Flies, are chiefly inhabitants of the temperate regions ; they are of small size, and not very numerous in species, about thirty being indigenous to the British Isles. The larva, which are aquatic in their habits, closely resemble the perfect insect in form. Their food consists of other insects and they prey especially upon the larva of the Day Flies. The perfect insects are usually found resting quietly on plants and other objects on the banks of streams. The large brown species, Perla bicaudata, appears in the spring, and is very common in the neighbourhood of pools, streams, and canals. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 47 TRIBE IV. CORRODENTIA. This tribe contains two families, one of which is represented in the British Isles. Family 5, Psocidce. This is a family of small insects with simple veined wings. They have a rather large head, and bear a pair of long tapering antennas. They are found upon trunks of trees, old palings, walls, etc. They are very active in their Fig. 57. Perk Bicaudata. movements, and generally appear in the imago state about the end of summer or beginning of autumn, Atropos pulsatorius is one of these. It lives in books and among old damp papers, whence it is often called the "Book Louse." 4 Fig. 58. Psocus Bipunctatus. They are also very destructive to collections of preserved insects and plants. About thirty species occur in this country. Family 6, Embiidce. This family contains no representative in the British Isles, and consists of a small number of almost exclusively exotic species. Two species, however, inhabit the continent of Europe, one of which, Embia Solieri, occurs in the south of France on the Mediterranean littoral. These insects are very closely allied to the Psocida in their habits. 48 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. TRIBE V. SOCIALIA. The Socialia contains a very peculiar group of insects closely allied to the cockroaches in the Orthoptera. They may be considered a connecting link between that order and the Neuroptera. There is only one family. Family 7, Termitm. The Termitice, or White Ants, are almost Fig. 59. Termes Bellicosus (Male). exclusively inhabitants of tropical climates, and are unrepresented in our own country. They are a very remarkable family of insects. They build most complicated dwellings, consisting of innumerable galleries Fig. 60. Termes Bellicosus (Soldier). and chambers, and they ''are so interesting in their habits that every traveller who has seen anything of them has always a great deal to relate concerning them. One species, Termes lucifugus, inhabits the south of France, and is very well known on account of the mischief which it sometimes causes. TRIBE VI. PHYSOPODA, OR THRIPS. This tribe of insects, to which the name Thysanopiera is some- times applied, contains many curious forms. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 49 There are two principal groups of these insects namely, the Tuberlifera and the Terebrantia. They are generally known to gardeners by the name of "Thrips." Some of them occasionally prove injurious to cultivated plants. This is especially the case with the Corn Thrips (Thrips cerealium), which generally attacks the ears of corn, and, when numerous, is very mischievous. TRIBE VII. MALLOPHAGA OR BIRD LICE. These insects, which are known as " Bird Lice," were formerly placed among the true lice, but they differ in the possession of biting mouths, and in the diet to which such a structure adapts them. A great number of these curious little insects have been Fig. 6r. Lipeurus Diomedeae (Mag. recorded, and they inhabit all parts of the world. They live among the feathers of birds and .the hairs of mammalia. Almost every animal and bird is subject to these parasites. The common fowl, duck, goose, game birds of all kinds, and pigeons, are very commonly infested by them, as are also the dog, the cat, the sheep, and the guinea-pig. The two principal families of the Mallophaga are the Philo- pttrida and the Liotheida. TRIBE VIII. THYSANURA OR BRISTLE TAILS. The forms composed in this tribe of insects are reckoned at present to be the nearest resemblance to the theoretical progenitors 5O HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. of the insects ; in fact, Sir John Lubbock hints that they might well be regarded not as insects at all. but rather as the surviving Fig 62. Lepisma Saccharina (Mag. representatives of a group formed by the ancestors of the whole multitude of insect types. Fig. 63. Orchesella Rufescens (Mag.) The food of these creatures consists of decayed vegetable matter. ORDER NEUROPTERA. 51 Three principal families may be recognised viz., Lepesmida, CampodeidcB, &&& Japygidce. TRIBE IX. COLLEMBOLA OR SPRING TAILS. These insects closely resemble the previous tribe in general character, to which also the same remarks nearly apply. They are generally small insects, a length of a quarter of an inch being considerably above the average. They are found commonly in loose earth, under decaying leaves in woods, in moss, Fig. 64. Isotoma Gervaisi (Mag.) under the bark of dead trees, and in rotten stumps. They always prefer damp situations. Cold seems to have but little effect upon them ; they will recover their activity after being frozen. One species, Desoria glacialis, is found enjoying itself upon the Swiss glaciers, and another, Dcgeeria nivalis, occurs upon the surface of snow in many parts of Europe. Some species also may be met with hopping about upon the surface of standing water. Podura aquatica, a minute blue-black species, is common in such situations in England, The five principal families are the Smynthurida, Papyriida. Degeeriadce, Poduridtz^ and the Amourida. ORDER ORTHOPTERA. INCLUDING THE GRASSHOPPERS, LOCUSTS, CRICKETS, COCKROACHES, EARWIGS, AND THEIR ALLIES. The Orthoptera include all those forms of insects which have four wings, the anterior pair being of a leathery nature. They are mandibulate ; that is, their mouths are formed for biting, and they undergo an imperfect metamorphosis. The insects comprised in this order are extremely numerous and destructive in the tropical parts of the world (Kirby gives their number as about 7,000), but they are only represented in the British Isles by about sixty species, few of which are really abundant. They include the cockroaches, crickets, grasshoppers, locusts, earwigs, etc. All these insects may be divided into three sub-divisions or 'tribes namely, the Runners or Cursoria, the Leapers or Saltatoria, and the Earwigs or Euplexoptera. The following table will show at a glance the outlines of the proposed arrangement : Tribe I., Cursoria. Hind wings with reins radiating from the base. Hind legs formed for running. Tribe II.. Sanatoria Hind wings with veins radiating from base. Hind legs formed for leaping. Tribe III., Euplexoptera. Hind wings with veins radiating from the apex of a horny piece occupying the base of the anterior margin. The Euplexoptera^ or Earwigs, are regarded by some authors as a separate order. They are thus treated by Westwood in his " Introduction to the Modern Classification of Insects," but the ORDER ORTHOPTERA. 53 modern tendency is to revert to the Linnaean system, and retain them among the Orthoptera. Fig. 65. Phasgonura Viridissima. TABULAR VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES OF THE ORTHOPTERA. TRIBE I. CURSORIA. Family i. Blattidse or Cockroaches. ,, 2. Mantidae or Praying Insects. ,, 3. Phasmidae or Stick and Leaf Insects. TRIBE II. SALTATORIA. Family 4. Achetidse or Crickets. ,, 5, Gryllidse or False Locusts. ,, 6. Locustidse or True Locusts and Grasshoppers. TRIBE UI.^EUPLEXOPTERA. Family 7. Forficulidse or Earwigs. 54 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. We will now proceed to describe each of these families in turn. TRIBE I. CURSORIA. The insects constituting this group are distinguished by having their hind legs adapted for walking or running. They are sub- divided into three families. Family i, Blattida. This family includes the numerous species of cockroaches, or "black bats" as they are often called by uneducated persons. They are represented in all parts of the world, but are most abundant within the tropics, and especially in central and southern America, where also the largest and finest species are to be found. Many curious forms are also to be met with in India and different parts of Africa. They are very active creatures, and run with considerable rapidity, but their activity is chiefly nocturnal, and during the day they generally remain quietly concealed in some obscure retreat. Fig. 66. BLtta Orientalis. Their diet consists of both vegetable and animal matter, and offal of every description. They are most useful in hot climates, acting the part of scavengers, and by these means preventing the out- break of malaria and other pestilential diseases. The best-known species in this country is the common Cock- roach (Blatta orient alls), which, by-the-bye, is not a native of Europe, having been introduced from the East several centuries ago, and to have made its home here. Other species besides this are met with occasionally in different parts of the country, having been introduced in like manner at different times from foreign parts. The Giant Cockroach (Blaberus ORDER QRTHOPTERA. 55 giganteus) is one of these. Its native home is South America and the West Indies, and in the latter place it is commonly called the "drummer." It measures nearly three inches in length. Fig. 67. Blaberus giganteus. The Zoological Gardens in London is a favourite resort of this species. Fig 8. Corydia Petiveriana. Family 2, Mantida. The Mantida may be at once distinguished from the insects comprising the other two families 01 the Cursoria 5 6 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. by the structure of the forelegs, which are converted into powerful raptoral organs. The body of these insects is more or less elongated, and the head, which is triangular or heart-shaped, is attached to the thorax by a distinct neck. Fig. 69. Blepharis Mendica. The Mantida, or Praying Insects, are celebrated for their habit of resting on their four hind legs, and with their front legs raised in the air, in what was formerly supposed to be an attitude of devotion, but really in an observant attitude, and on the alert for their prey. None of these insects are met with in the British Isles, but several species are rather abundant in the south of France. Two species, Mantis pauperata and Mantis religosa, measure about two or two and a half inches in length. A third species, Mantis oratoria, is also common but somewhat smaller in size. Family 3, Phasmidce. These insects very much resemble the Mantidcz in general appearance, to which also they are very closely allied. ORDER ORTHOPTERA. 57 They are among the most peculiar insects in existence. Their appearance is comical in the extreme. Many of them resemble sticks, either green growing trees or brown and withered branches, and hence the name of stick insects commonly applied to them is very appropriate. On account of their skeleton-like forms they have also been likened to ghosts and spectres. Some few species mimic leaves of trees and various plants, and these are often called " leaf insects." The number of species of this family is not very large, and by far the greater part of these are inhabitants of the warmer regions of the earth, and they seem to increase in size, especially the nearer their home lies to the Equator. Among the more interesting species we may mention Cypho- crania semirubra from Brazil, with short greenish elytra and pink wings. Bacillus rosii is a brown, wingless form found in Italy and the south of France. Some of the tropical species are among the largest insects known. A winged Australian species attains the length of ten inches. Lopaphus cocophagus is a common species in the South Sea Islands, and sometimes commits great ravages in the plantations of cocoa-nut trees. When this insect is alarmed it squirts out a highly acrid fluid, which causes great pain, and sometimes blind- ness if it reaches the eye. We may remark that no species of Phasmida are known to inhabit the British Isles. TRIBE II. SALTATORIA. The principal character of the insects belonging to this tribe consists in the adaptation of the hind legs to the purpose of leaping. The males of most of the species possess the faculty of pro- ducing loud chirping sounds, but the means by which this is effected vary in the different families. Family 4, Achetida. The most familiar British insect belonging to this family is the common House Cricket (Acheta domestica). Living, as it does, in the immediate vicinity of the fire, it seems to be totally independent of the changes of the seasons, and may usually be found of all ages at all periods of the year. Crickets are particularly abundant in bakehouses, being extremely partial to warmth. The chirping noise which they produce at night-time is sometimes almost deafening, and it is really surprising from what a very long distance the sound may be heard. 58 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Their food consists of bread crumbs and scraps of meat and vegetables which have been allowed to accumulate during the daytime The best way, therefore, to get rid of the insects is to Fig. 70. Hetrodes Pupa. take proper care in clearing away all the refuse after meals, for if this were not there the crickets could not subsist, and would soon quit the house. They are. however, generally objected to only by V Fig. 71. Gryllotalpa Vulgaris. weak-nerved people, and do very little harm, if any whatever. It is a question whether they are not very useful in acting as scavengers. A nearly allied British species is the Field Cricket (Acheta cam- ORDER ORTHOPTERA. $9 pestris), which is rather larger than the house cricket. It is comparatively rare and local in this country, but abounds every- where on the Continent. A third British species is the Wood Cricket (Nemolicus sylvestris), which is considerably rarer than either of the preceding. It is found abundantly among dead leaves in woods in France and other parts of the Continent, but is very rarely found in England. The Mole Cricket (Gryllotalpa vulgaris) is perhaps the most interesting member of the family. It is a large, robust insect, about an inch and a half in length and of a very dark brown colour. It is remarkable for the peculiar shape of its front legs, which exactly resemble those of the mole. It burrows in loose soil, and, like the mole, it passes along close beneath the surface of the ground, and often raises a small ridge Fig. 72. Qxanthus Pellucens. as it advances. It frequents gardens, especially near the banks of canals, and is also fond of damp meadows and other localities in the vicinity of water. The eggs to the number of 200 or 300, are deposited in a chamber of considerable dimensions, and enclosed in a sort of cocoon-like envelope. The larvcz when first hatched are white, and are said to be three years in arriving at a state of maturity. The mole cricket is found chiefly in the south of England. Family 5, Gryllida. The most conspicuous insect belonging to this family in Britain is known as the great Green Grasshopper (Phasgonura viridissima), which measures nearly four inches in expanse of the wing, and is therefore nearly as large as the migratory locust which sometimes visits us. The great green grasshopper is not, however, a very common 60 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. insect in this country, being principally confined to the south of the island. Another European and British species, Decticus verrucivorus, is of about the same length. It receives its name from the custom prevailing among the Swedish peasants of making it bite their warts. This insect, in common with many others of the same family, when at all roughly handled, emits from the mouth a Fig. 73. Truxalis Nasuta. brownish fluid, which is said to possess acrid qualities, and the introduction of this into the warts is supposed to cause their disappearance. Family 6, Locustidce. This family, which includes the grass- hoppers and true locusts, is easily distinguished from both the preceding families by the character of the antennae, which are com- paratively short. ORDER ORTHOPTERA. 61 The common English Grasshopper (Rhammatocerus biguttulus], whose song must be familiar to every one who has walked through the fields during the summer time, is produced by the friction of the hinder thighs against the wing-cases. The locusts have been celebrated from the dawn of history on account of the terrible ravages which they have committed m Fig. 74. Decticus Verrucivorus. various parts of the world ; and although many different species have made their appearance in our own country at various times, the climate, fortunately, seems unsuitable for them to live in, and they have, therefore, not been known to breed here- The Migratory Locust (^Edipoda migratoria) is perhaps the best 75- Locusta Peregrina. known in this country on account of its visits, many stray in- dividuals of which have visited us at different periods. Locusts are known all the world over, in fact, nearly every country has a species peculiar to itself. The most extraordinary accounts are on record of the vastness of the swarms which every now and again invade particular districts. They are said sometimes to absolutely darken the sun. 62 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. They clear off everything from the surface of the ground as completely as if the place had been visited by fire. In many eastern countries locusts are relished as articles of food. The distinctive character of the insects comprised in this group is found in the structure of the wings. The anterior pair are of a horny or leathery consistence, but always much shorter than the Fig. 76. Caloptenus Italicus. -abdomen. The hind wings, on the contrary, are of large size, and are composed of a very delicate membrane. There is only one family. TRIBE III. EUPLEXOPTERA. Family 7, Forficidida. The insects of this family present a great uniformity of structure. They are, for the most part, of nocturnal habits, concealing themselves during the day in crevices under the bark of trees, or in the ground under stones and leaves, etc. Their food consists almost exclusively of vegetable substances, and are sometimes very injurious to flowers and fruit. It has been said, however, that they also feed largely on plant- lice or aphides, which, if true, give them a very redeeming quality The female earwig deposits her eggs under a stone in some cavity in the ground often dug out by her own labour. Unlike most other insects, the female does not perish as soon as she has laid her eggs, but lives to behold her offspring, brood- ing over them almost like a hen. But it is distressing to learn that if the mother should die she is immediately devoured by her progeny. ORDER ORTHOPTERA. 63 The Euplexoptera are widely distributed over the surface of the earth. The tropical regions, however, can hardly claim any great predominance over more temperate climates as regards either the number or size of the species. The largest European species (Forficesita gigantea), which is an inhabitant of some parts of England, measures about an inch in length of the body. Our common Earwig (Forficula auricularia) is not only found all over Europe, but apparently throughout the greater part of the eastern hemisphere. Fig. 77. Foificuli Auricularia. Another British species, viz., the little Earwig (Labia minor), is also of wide distribution. The earwig derives its name from its occasionally creeping into the human ear in search of concealment. This has been denied by many authors, but we have personally known instances of ear- wigs entering the ears of persons lying asleep in fields in the summer time. The insect can be driven out immediately by pour- ing a little oil into the ear. Some writers have attempted to prove that the name earwig is a corruption of " earwing," in allusion to the shape of the hind wings ; really a very ingenious idea, but incorrect nevertheless. ORDER HEMIPTERA. INCLUDING THE LAND BUGS, WATER BUGS, PLANT BUGS, SKATERS, LANTERN FLIES, FROG HOPPERS, APHIDES, AND THEIR ALLIES. The Hempitera are Haustellate insects ; they have four wings, which are membranous and naked. Their metamorphosis is in- Fig. jS.-Zelus Quadrispinosus. complete. The order is a very extensive one. The ins ^ cts ' however, are mostly found in the tropical parts of the world, from ORDER HEMIPTERA. 65 whence nearly twenty thousand species have been described. In the British Isles their number reaches nearly a thousand. The study of the Hemiptera has hitherto been sadly neglected, owing to the great majority of them being very small species. They include the Plant Bugs, Sand Bugs, Water Bugs, Cuckoo Spits, Froghoppers, Plant Lice, and many other familiar forms. The three great divisions into which they are divided are treated by many entomologists as distinct orders. The following will show Fig. 79. Macrocheraia Grandis. under each heading the principal distinguishing character of each group or sub-order as we shall designate them. Sub-Order i, Heteroptera. Fore wings of a parchment like consistency. Sub-Order 2, Homoptera. Fore wings membranous and naked, similar to the hind ones. Sub- Order 3, Anaplura. Wingless; no metamorphosis. The Heteroptera are regarded as the highest of the three groups, followed by the Homoptera, while the Anoplura constitute a 5 66 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. somewhat aberrant series, and are somewhat in the same position as the fleas (Aphanipterd] are to the true Diptera. TABULAR VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES OF THE HEMIPTERA. Sub- Order I. Heteroptera. TRIBE I. GEOCORES OR LAND BUGS. Family I. Scutelleridae or Shield Bugs. ,, 2. Coreidae or Land Bugs. ,, 3. Lygaeidae or Chinch Bugs. 4. Pyrrhocoridae or Plant Bugs. ,, 5. Capsidae or Sap Bugs. ,, 6. Tingididae or Tree Bugs. ,, 7. Cimicidae or Bed Bugs. ,, 8. Reduviidae or Pirate Bugs. ,, 9. Emesidoe or Wolf Bugs. TRIBE II. HYDROCORES OR WATER BUGS. Family 10. Saldidae or Water Jumpers. 11. Hydrometridae or Skaters. 12. Gerridse or Ocean Bugs. 13. Galgulidae or Shark Bugs. 14. Nepidae or Water Scorpions. 15. Notonectidae or Water Boatmen. Sub- Order 2. Homoptera. Family I. Cicadidse or Cicadas Flies. ,, 2. Fulgoridae or Lantern Flies. ,, 3. Membracidae or Horn Flies. ,, 4. Cercopidae or Froghoppers. ,, 5. Tettigonidae or Meadow Lice. 6. Ledridae or Oak Lice. ,, 7. Jassidae or Elegant Lice. ,, 8. Psyllidae or Plant Lice. , , 9. Aphidae or Aphides. ,, 10. Aleyrodidae or Powder Flies ,, ii. Coccidae or Scale Insects. Sub-Order 3. Anoplura, Family I. Pediculidae or True Lice. SUB-ORDER I. HETEROPTERA. The Heteroptera constitute the first sub-order of the Hemiptcra. They include the True Bugs, an extensive group of very varied ORDER HEMIPTERA. 67 structure and habits. The greater part of the terrestrial species feed on plants, though some feed on the blood of animals, while Fig. 80. Graphosoma Lineatum (Mag.) the aquatic species are principally carnivorous in their habits. This sub-order is divided into two tribes. TRIBE I. GEOCORES OR LAND BUGS. This tribe includes the terrestrial species of bugs. It is sub- divided into fifteen families. i. Tectocoris Banksii. Family i, Scutetterida. This extensive family includes the greater portion of the largest and handsomest species of the Land Bugs. The insects live upon plants, trees, and shrubs, and feed upon the juices, which they suck out of the soft tissues, many of them especially attacking juicy fruits. The family is very well repre- sented in the warmer parts of the world, where also the most beautifully coloured species are met with. One of the most handsome representatives in Europe is Grapko- 68 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. soma lineatum^ which measures nearly half an inch in length. It is reddish in colour and is common on flowers, especially those oi the Umbclliferat* but is not met with in our own country. Fig. 82.-"-Catacanthus Incarnatus. Edessa cervus is a native of South America, and another pretty species. The most familiar British species is what is commonly known as the Colewort Bug (Strachia oleracea), a very pretty insect, which lives on cruciferous plants, and is said sometimes to be iniurious in gardens. Fig. 83. Euthyrhynchus Floridanus (Mag.) Some of the Chinese Bugs belonging to the genus Tesseratoma are the largest species known. Family 2, G?m&u. This family contains a great number of plant-feeding native and exotic species, varying considerably in shape and structure. The majority of European species are, ORDER HEMIPTERA. 69 however, of small size in comparison to those found in tropical parts of the world. The insects of this family are rarely adorned with bright colours, different shades of brown being the prevailing tints, although a few of them are gaily adorned. Fig. 84. Trigonosoma DesfontaineL In their general habits they much resemble the Shield Bugs. Two British species are Syromastes marginatus and Verlusia rhomb ea. Family 3, Lygceiilcz. The members of this family are, on the whole, much smaller than the Coreidcz, some of the smallest forms of which many of them resemble. \ / Fig. 85. Cantao Ocellatus (Mag.) These insects are generally of a red colour, with black bands and spots. Several species are very injurious to cultivated plants. One of the most destructive of all is Blissiis leucopterus, a black insect with white fore wings, each of which is marked with a large black /O HANDBOOK OF ANTS, 'BEES, ETC. triangular spot on the outer edge. It measures about an eighth Fig. 86. Menenctus Lunatus. of an inch in length. The young larva is red. In the United Fig. 87. Copius Intermedius. States this insect, which abounds to a considerable extent, called the " Chinch Bug." ORDER HEMIPTERA. /I Family 4, Pyrrhocoridce. This family of bugs abounds in all parts of the world, and in Europe and Britain is undoubtedly the most numerously represented of all the families of bugs. A very common species in this country found on nettles is Phytocoris tripustulatus, which is about one-sixth of an inch in length, and generally yellowish in colour. Family 5, Capsidce. This family contains a great number of Fig. 88. Tingis Pyri (Mag.) small species of variegated colours, which feed exclusively on the sap of plants or the juice of fruits. A rather small species (Capsus ater] is common upon herbage. The male is entirely black ; in the female the head and thorax are reddish. The genus Miris and its allies include elongated species, which are found chiefly in grassy places. Family 6, Tingididce. The species of this family differ con- \ Fig. 89 Cimex Lectularius (Mag.; siderably among themselves in size, structure, and habits; and although the majority of them are carnivorous, others, especially among the smaller species, are herbivorous. One species (Tingis pyri\ found in our own country, is sometimes very injurious to pear trees. Family 7, Cimicidce. The type of this family is the common Bed Bug (Acanthia lectularia), which is only too well known to most people. Although treated as a British insect, it does not 72 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. always appear to have been an inhabitant of these islands, but to have made its way here about the beginning of the sixteenth century. Three other British species have been described as inhabiting the dwelling-places of certain animals and sucking their blood. A. columbaria attacks pigeons. A. hirundinis is found in swallows' nests, and A. pipistrelli feeds on bats. Family 8, Reduviida. All the insects of this family are preda- ceous in their habits, and are exceedingly numerous in tropical climates, The largest British species is Reduvius personatus, an insect about three-quarters of an inch long, of a blackish-brown Fig. 90. Acanthaspis Sexguttata colour with reddish legs. It is well furnished with wings, and flies especially in warm summer evenings, when it frequently enters houses, being attracted by the lights. This insect is said to be a great enemy to the bed bug. Some of the foreign species of Reduviidcz are most formidable insects, such as the great black Cotiorrhinus renggeri of Chili, which often attacks travellers when camping out. Family 9, Emestdce. Most of these insects are carnivorous in their habits. The best known species of this family is probably Plaaria vagabunda, a brown, delicately-formed insect, which inhabits trees. TRIBE II. HYDROCORES OR WATER BUGS. All the insects belonging to this tribe are either water insects, or found only in the immediate neighbourhood of water. It contains the remaining families of the Heteroptera, six in number. 10, Saldidce. The majority of species belonging to this ORDER HEMIPTERA. 73 family are small, dull-coloured insects, always found in the neighbourhood, though they are not strictly aquatic. Family n, Hydrometridce. The habits of most of these insects are herbivorous, and they are all found near water. Hydrometra stagnorum is a black or brown insect, more or less tinged with reddish, and about half an inch long. It is found running on the surface of water, or else on the banks or among water plants, but is not so active as some of the other species. Fig. 91. Halobates Pictus (Mag.) Family 12, Gerridce. This family includes some very familiar insects, which may be seen running over the surface of every piece of water. These insects, of which several species are abundant in Britain, have boat-shaped bodies. The typical form is Gerris lacustris, which may be met with almost anywhere. They are predaceous in their habits, feeding upon other insects. Some nearly allied, but mostly very small species, with legs even longer in proportion than those of our common forms, are met with at sea within the tropics, and often at a great distance from land. 74 ^HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. family 13, Galgulidcz. This family only includes a few American species, which are generally brown spotted with yellow. Galgulus oculatus inhabits the southern part of the United States, and measures about two-fifths of an inch in length. Family 14, Nepidcz. The species of this family are not very Fig. 92. Galgulus Oculatus (Mag.) numerous, but are of considerable interest. They are of large size, and very fierce and voracious. The genus Betostoma, found in the East Indies and America, includes the largest species of Heteroptera, some of which measure fcur and a half inches in Fig. 93. Nepa Cinerea. length, and nearly six inches in expanse of the wing. Their food consists of small fish, frogs, etc. The best-known species in our own country is the Water Scorpion (Nepa cinerea\ which has the power of inflicting a very painful wound if handled. It m easures about an inch in length. ORDER HEMIPTERA. 75 In colour it is yellowish-grey, the back of the abdomen being red, and its large front legs, which somewhat resemble the claws of a Fig. 94. Notonecta Glauca. scorpion, have given rise to the name by which it is popularly known. It is very common in stagnant water. Family 15, Notonectidce. These insects are commonly known as " Water Boatmen," from their habit of rowing themselves Fig. 95. Metacauthus Punctipe (Mag.) about on their backs with their long hind legs. They are car- nivorous, feeding on small insects and other "fry." The most typical British species is Notonecta glauca, a yellowish 76 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. insect about half an inch long. It is a most predaceous insect, and can bite severely. Another common species inhabiting our own country is Coriax Fig. 96. Consa Striata. Geoffroyi) which is nearly half an inch long. The Notonectidce are all very powerful and active creatures. SUB-ORDER II. HOMOPTERA This extensive sub-order includes the Cicadas, Lantern Flies, Plant Lice, Scale Insects, etc. Fig. 97. Fulogra Horsfieldi. As already pointed out, the most striking general character of this group consists in the uniform texture of the forewings. Fig. 98. Cixius Cunicularius (Mag.) There are eleven families included in the Homoptera, all the species belonging to which feed upon vegetable juices. ORDER HEMIPTERA. 77 Family i, Cicadtdce. These insects are mostly inhabitants of warm climates, and our only British representative of the family (C. anglica) is one of the smaller species, the wings only expand- . 99. Delphax Longipennis. ing about an inch and a quarter. Four or five hundred species, however, are known to inhabit the world, and some of them attain to considerable dimensions. 1 Fig. TOO. Derbe Strigipennis (Mag.; They generally live upon trees and shrubs, and obtain their nourishment by piercing the tissues and sucking out the juices of their young tender shoots. Fig. 101. Issus Coleoptratus. The Cicadas are improperly called "Locusts" both in America and Australia, on account of the chirping noise which they perpetually keep up in the woods, both day and night. /8 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Family 2, Fuglorida. This family includes the Lantern Flies and Candle Flies, which are remarkable for their large ,size, bright colours, and strange forms. They are almost all exotic insects. Fig. 102. Tettigometra Virtscens (Mag.) The largest species is found in South America, and is called the Great Lantern Fly (Fulgora la'ernaria}, measuring nearly three inches in length, and over four inches in expanse of the wings. Fig. 103. Poeciloptera Phalaenoides (Mag.) The Chinese Lantern Fly (Fulgora candelaria) has a red body, the fore wings being greenish with yellow spots, the hind wings orange colour with black tips. 4. Membracis Foliata (Mag.) Cixius nervosus is found in the British Isles, chiefly on alders. It measures about a quarter of an inch in length, and in colour is black with yellow legs, and transparent wings dotted with brown. Family 3, Membracidcz. This family is chiefly remarkable for the fantastic shapes assumed by the prothorax. ORDER HEMIPTERA. 79 Most of the species are inhabitants of America, where they occur in wonderful abundance and variety. A common species, Centrotus cornutus, is found in the British Fig. 105. Smilia Fasciata (Mag.) Isles and over the greater part of Europe. It is rather over a quarter of an inch long, black, with a pair of upright horns on the prothorax. Another common European and British species (Gargara gen- Fig. 106. CEda Infkta Maj.) is smaller than the preceding, and has no horns on the pro- thorax. Family 4, Cercopidcz. The " Froghoppers " and "Cuckoo-spits" belong to this family. They are chiefly small insects found among grass and bushes in the summer. Fig. 107. Pbysoplia Nigrata (Mag.) A very common species in this country is the common Cuckoo- spit (Aphrophora spumarid), which is about a quarter of an inch in length, and of a yellowish-grey colour. This insect can make a prodigious leap in proportion to its size. It is said to sometimes spring to a distance of two yards. Its yellow larva may often be 80 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. seen on grass and low plants enveloped in a mass of froth, which has given rise to the name of " Cuckoo- spit." Fig. 108. Hypsauchenia Westwoodii (Mag.) Family 5, Tettigonidce. These insects are exceedingly numerous, and are often remarkably elegant in form. They are mostly in- habitants of America, where some three or four hundred species Fig. 109. Heteronotus Vulneratus (Mag.) have been described, but in England we have an exceedingly pretty species (Tettigonia viridis], which is common in damp meadows. Fig. no. Jassus Atomarius (Mag.) Family 6, Ledrida. Many of the insects belonging to this family resemble beetles somewhat in appearance. Ledra aurita, which may be considered the type of the family, is a greenish insect, ORDER HEMIPTERA. 81 about three-quarters of an inch in length, and found on oak trees. Family ^Jassidce. This family contains a considerable num- ber of small insects, some of them of great beauty and elegant in appearance. The typical genus isfassus. Family 8, Psyllidce. This is the first family of the so-called " Plant Lice " or " Blight." They resemble the " Froghoppers " Fig. in. BythoscopusVenosus. (Mag.) in their habits of jumping. Most of them are small insects, and they subsist on the sap of plants, to which they are sometimes in- jurious. A few species produce galls. Livia pyri is a reddish insect, abundant on pear trees. Other common species are found on the alder, ash, oak, and nettle. Fig. 112. Hyia Juncorum (Mag.) Family 9, Aphidce. 1\&.Aphida, or "Plant Lice," "Blight," and " Green Fly," as they are variously called, are amongst the most destructive of insects. They are small and feeble creatures, but make up for their individual insignificance by their immense numbers. They sometimes exist in countless millions, completely smother- ing the plants upon which they feed. Migratory habits seem to be strongly developed among the Aphidce, hence it is we are so suddenly visited by such enormous quantities of the insects during hot weather in the summer time. In colour the Aphides are generally green, brown, and black, 6 82 HANDBOOK OF ANTS' BEES, ETC. according to the species. Different kinds live on different plants and trees. Fig. 113. Darnis Limacodes (Mag.) The Hop Aphis (Aphis humuli) lives upon the hop, and its Fig. 114. Tricophora Sanguinolenta (Mag.) abundance or scarcity is a most important matter to the hop- growers in this country. Fig. 115. Aphis Tiliae (Mag.) One of the most destructive insects of the whole family is the Vine Aphis (Phylloxera vastatrix), which has committed terrible ORDER HEMIPTERA. ravages at various times in most of the vine-growing districts on the Continent. The Aphides have the habit of discharging a sweet sticky sub- stance called honeydew, of which ants are very fond. Fig. 116. Lachnus Quescus (Mag.) The reproduction of the Aphides constitutes one of the most interesting chapters in the history of the animal kingdom. Family 10, Aleyrodidce. Many of the insects of this family re- semble moths in appearance. Indeed, the typical species, Aleyrodes Fig. 117. Aleyrodes Proletella (Mag.) proletelta, a very small reddish insect, was formerly considered to be a moth by the older writers on entomology. Family 1 1, Coccida. This family contains the Cochineal Insects, the Scale Insects, and their allies. The Coccidce, or Scale Insects, are sometimes very injurious to cultivated plants, but they are also useful, producing cochineal, shellac, manna, and other substances of considerable importance. The Cochineal Insect (Coccus cacti) is a native of Mexico, and furnishes us with the most valuable and durable red dye that we possess, and the Lac Insect (Coccus lacca\ an East Indian insect, produces the well-known lac-dye. 8 4 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The common Scale Insect (Coccus adonidum} is well known in hothouses and conservatories in our own country, though it is not indigenous, having been imported from abroad. Fig 118. Coccus Cacti (Mag.) SUB-ORDER III. ANOPLURA. This sub -order contains only one family, which is considered to be the last and lowest group of the Hemtptera, of which it may be Fig 119. Pediculus Capitis (Mag. wings, regarded as a very degenerate form. The insects have no and live upon the blood of other animals. Family i, Pediculida.'lte " Lice " are a very extensive family, ORDER HEMIPTERA. 85 but at present not very well known. Almost every mammal has a louse peculiar to itself. Three species infest man. The Head Louse (Pediculus capitis), found on the head, especially in children. The Body Louse (Pediculus vestimenti}, found in the clothes \ and the Crab Louse (Phthirius inquinalis), a broader and shorter insect, found in the hair on the face and body of uncleanly persons. The lice infesting different races of men differ in colour thus, those found on niggers are black ; and those on Europeans are whitish. Other species of lice infest the dog, cat, pig, mouse, elephant, monkey, etc. The PcdiculidtR undergo no metamorphoses. ORDER DIPTERA. INCLUDING THE GNATS, MIDGES, CRANE FLIES, HAWK FLIES,. BEE FLIES, BREEZE FLIES, BOT FLIES, AND THEIR ALLIES. The Diptera, or two-winged flies, are among the most numerous orders of insects, but they have been so little studied hitherto that we have but a very imperfect knowledge of them, especially a& regards the tropical species. Fig 120. Midas Giganteus. The number recorded in the British Isles is about 3,000, that of the whole world probably exceeds 30,000, and it is certain that this number will be increased immensely as time goes on. The Diptera may be denned as insects with a sucking mouth (Haustdlate), and with only two wings, which are membranous, ORDER DIPTERA. 8/ while the hind wings are represented only by a pair of small knotted organs, called halteres. Their metamorphoses are com- plete. The larvce are footless " grubs," generally with a soft body, but sometimes leathery or even nearly horny. Many of them possess a distinctly marked head, which may contain ocelli, but in the majority the head appears as if it were simply one of the neigh- bouring segments. Fig. 121. Craspedia Coriaria. Their food generally consists of decayed animal and vegetable matter, and thus they are very useful as scavengers, particularly in hot climates. The larva frequently live in the substance upon which they feed, while others reside in water, and many are parasitic. For the classification of the Diptera we owe much to that eminent entomologist, Osten-Sacken, whose arrangement has been here generally adopted. TABULAR VIEW OF THE PRINCIPAL FAMILIES OF THE DIPTERA. TRIBE I. NEMOCERA. Family I. Cecidomyiidae or Wheat Midges. ,, 2. Mycetophilidse or Army Worms. ,, 3. Simuliidse or Sand Flies. 88 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Family 4. Bibionidae or Garden Flies. 5. Blephariceridae or Blood Flies. 6. Culicidse or Gnats. 7. Chironomidse or Midges. 8. Orphnephilidae or Bread Flies. 9. Psychodidae or Fungus Midges. 10. Tipulidae or Crane Flies. 11. Dixidae or Wood Gnats. 12. Rhyphidae or Dung Midges. TRIBE II. BRACHYCERA. Family 13. Xylophagidae or Tree Flies. ,, 14. Ccenomyiidae or Poplar Flies. ,, 15. Stratiomyiidae or Manure Flies. 16. Acanthomeridae or Pomade Flies. ,, 17. Tabanidae or Breeze Flies. 18. Leptidae or Fox Flies. ,, 19. Asilidas or Hawk Flies. 20. Midaidae or Wolf Flies. ,, 21. Nemestrinidae or Flower Flies. ., 22. Bombyliidae or Bee Flies. ,, 23. Therevidas or Hairy" Flies. ,, 24. Scenopinidae or Window Flies. ,, 25. Acroceridae or Sloth Flies. 26. Empidse or Little Hawk Flies. 27. Dolichopodidas or Fairy Flies. ,, 28. Lonchopteridae or Water Flies. ,, 29. Syrphidae or Dart Flies. ,, 30. Conopidaa or Wasp Flies. 31. Pipunculidse or Hedge Flies. ,, 32. Platypezidse or Fungus Flies. 33. GEstridae or Bat Flies. 34. Muscidae or Meat Flies. Section I. Caly ptera. Sub-family i. Tachininae or Parasitic Flies. ,, 2. Descinae or Rainbow Flies. ,, 3. Sarcophaginas or Screw Worms. 4. Muscinae or Blow Flies. 5. Antromyiinae or Summer Flies. Section 2- Acalypterce. Sub-family 6. Scatophaginae or Dung Flies. ,, 7. Ortalinae or Wood Flies. 8. Trypetinae or Fruit Flies. ,, 9. Piophilinae or Cheese Flies. ,, 10. Diopsinae or Horn Flies, j, n. Chloropinae or Corn Flies. ,, 12. Drosophilinae or Mould Flies. ,, 13. Agromyzinae or Holly Flies. Family 35. Phoridae or Plant Flies. ORDE;R DIPTERA. TRIBE III. HOMALOPTERA. Family 36. Hoppoboscidae or Forest Flies. 37- Nycteribidce or Bat Lice. ,, 38. Braulidse or Bee Lice. TRIBE IV. APHANIPTERA. Family 39. Pulicidse or Fleas. The number of families comprised in the Diptera is so great that space will only permit us to deal very briefly with each. \ Fig. 122. Epidosis Leuccpeza (Mag.) TRIBE I. NEMOCERA. This tribe contains many well-known insects namely, the Midges, Gnats, Daddy-longlegs, etc., which are divided into twelve families. Family i, Cecidomyiida. These are small delicate species, generally clothed with long hair. They are all vegetable feeders, some of them being very destructive to crops. The Hessian Fly (Ceddpmyia destructor) is probably one of the best-known species, on account of the terrible mischief which it has caused in various countries, and particularly in the United States of America. Miss E. A. Ormerod, the well-known economic entomologist, has recently written a great deal concerning this insect, with the view to preventing its increase in our own country. 9O HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The Wheat Midge (Diplosis tritict) is another very mischievous species. Family 2, Mycetophilida. These are generally small species. Fig. 123. MycetophDa Distigma (Mag.) They are all vegetable feeders. The larva live gregariously in fungi, rotten wood, bark, etc. The Army Worms (Sciard) of America, which belong to this family, sometimes congregate in enormous numbers. Fig. 124. Macrocera Lutea (Mag.) The flies are remarkable for their remarkable powers of leaping. Family 3, Stmutmfo.This family includes only one genus, Simulium. It is, however, widely distributed, and some of the species, ORDER DIPTERA. 91 which are popularly called Sand Flies, are exceedingly annoying in hot climates. Family 4, Bibionida. Several species belonging to this group are very familiar insects. Among them is the St. Mark's Fly (Bibio Fig. 125. Simulium Ornatum (Mag.) Mard\ which is black, with transparent wings in the male and and brownish in the female. These flies appear in the spring, and their larva live in dung or damp earth. Many of the species are popularly called " garden flies." Fig. 126. Bibio Hortulanus (Mag.) Family 5, Blepharicerida. These flies have long legs, the antennce are usually long and slender, and the wings broad and long. The type of this family is Blepharicera fasciata, the female of which is a very blood-thirsty creature. It is a dark brown fly, with transparent wings and yellow legs, and it measures about 92 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. one-third of an inch in length. It is, however, by no means abundant. Family 6, Culicida. The Culicida, or Gnats, are a very extensive family. Fig. 127. Culex Pipiens (Mag.) The larva are nearly all aquatic. They are generally small, dull-coloured insects, and are often called "Mosquitoes" in the country. These insects frequently Fig. 128. Chironomus Plumosus (Mag.) cause much annoyance during the summer months to persons engaged in out-door occupations. They are particularly abundant in damp meadows, in the vicinity of water, and also in hay-fields, ORDER DIPTERA. 93 where the face and hands of the mowers are sometimes blistered to much pain by the suckers of f he little creatures. Fig. 129. Ceratopogon Femoratus (Mag.) One of the most troublesome species is probably the House Gnat (Culex ciliaris], which, thirsting for its evening meal, often Fig. 130. Trichocera Fuscata (Mag.) enters our apartments, sounding its approach by a tolerably loud humming. 94 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Culex annulatus is a little larger, and is said to produce a greater amount of irritation by its bite. Family 7, Chironomida. These insects are small delicate insects, much resembling gnats in appearance, and are popularly called "Midges." The larva of most of the species are aquatic. The larva of Chironomus plumosus t which is common in Fig. 131. Tipula Gigantea. stagnant water, is called the " blood worm " from its bright red colour. Family 8, Orphnephilidcz. Most of the species belonging to this family are of small size. The typical species is Orphnephelia testacea, measuring scarcely one-tenth of an inch in length, and is sometimes found in bake- houses. It is of a rusty-yellow colour. Family 9, Psychodidce. This is a small family consisting of minute brown or yellowish species remarkable for their resemblance ORDER DIPTERA. 95 to moths. They mostly feed on fungi and decayed vegetable substances. The species of Phlebotomus are troublesome blood-suckers in the south of Europe. Family 10, Tipulidcz. The insects belonging to this group are popularly known as Crane Flies and Daddy-longlegs. They are very abundant. The commonest species, Tipula oleracea, is a grey species with transparent wings, and exceedingly destructive to corn, roots of grass, etc., and no effectual remedy has hitherto been discovered for preventing their attacks. The familiar Winter Gnat (Trichocera hiemalis) belongs to this Fig. 132. Erioptera Grisea (.Mag.) family. It may often be seen, even during the dreary months of December and January, dancing to and fro under the shelter of some hedge or wall. In frosty weather it conceals itself beneath the bark of trees, under leaves, etc. Family n, Dixidce. This family of gnats frequents damp places in woods, and are therefore designated " Wood Gnats." They may occasionally be seen during the summer time in immense swarms. The species of Dixa are reddish, yellow, or black insects generally of small size. Family i, Rhyphid&.T&t larva of most of these insects feed upon decayed vegetable matter. 96 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. The species of Rhyphus may often be found resting on leaves in damp situations, they may also be seen on windows, and occasionally " dancing in the air. They are generally brown, yellow, or grey insects of small size. TRIBE II. BRACHYCERA. These insects are generally of much larger size, and more robust in appearance than those contained in the previous tribe. They are divided into twenty-two families. Fig. 133. Stratiomys Chameleon. Family 13, Xylophagida. The Xylophagidcz are thick-looking insects. The head is as broad as the thorax. The legs, which are long and slender, are quite naked. The larva live in rotten wood, and the flies may often be seen at rest on the trunks of trees. A Fig. 134. Sargus Cuprarius (Mag.) Family 14, C&nomyiida. In this family the head is narrower than the thorax ; otherwise they closely resemble the previous family. The typical European species is Ccenomyia ferruginea, which measures about three-quarters of an inch in length, and in colour varies from rusty-yellow to black. The larva feed inside the trunks of rotten poplars. Family 15, Stratiomyiida. These are rather slender flies, varying from half to one inch in length. They are usually found resting on low plants. Many species frequent cow-dung and manure, etc. ORDER DIPTERA. 97 Several kinds exhibit a metallic coloration, others are black, often more or less varied with white or yellow. Family 16, Acanthomerida. The Acanthomerida are met with principally in America. The typical species, Acanthomera picta, is found in Brazil, and measures more than an inch in length. It used formerly to be largely used in the manufacture of pomade. Family 17, Tabanida. The Tabanidcz are broad-looking Fig. 135. Chrysops Caecutriens (Mag.) insects. The larva usually live in damp earth. The females of these species live on the blood of animals. The best-known species is the Gad Fly Tabanus bovinus), which measures more than an inch in length, and is particularly trouble- some to cattle in hot weather. It is blackish above, and reddish beneath and on the sides of the abdomen. The Clegg Fly (FTamatopota phwialis) also belongs to this family. Fig. 136. Haematopoia Pluvialis (Mag.) It is a dingy-looking insect with mottled-grey wings, and is some- times very abundant in damp meadows. Many other species otTabanida, popularly called "Breeze Flies," are plentiful in this country. Family 18, Leptida. These insects are mostly predatory, though many small species are parasitic on animals and other insects. The larva of Vermilio degeerii lives in sand, and feeds on such 7 9 8 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. insects as fall in its way. Those of the genus Leptis are parasitic on cockchafers and other large beetles. Family 19, Asilida. The Asilida or Hawk Flies are a family of considerable extent, and include many very large and conspicuous insects. They feed on other insects, and are very courageous, some- times attacking even dragon flies. One of the most common Fig. 137. Vermilio Degeerii (Mag.) species is Asilits crabroniformis^ which is common in the south ot England. Family 20, Midaidce. These are large insects resembling the Asilidce in their habits, and are nearly all tropical. A few species, however, inhabit the south of Europe. I! Fig. 138. Chrysopila Atrata (Mag.) Midas giganteus is found in Brazil and adjacent countries in tropical America. It measures about one inch and a half in length. Family 21, Nemestrinidce. These insects are chiefly inhabit- ants of tropical climates like the preceding family. They are generally of a black colour, sometimes with red legs. They suck ORDER DIPTERA. 99 the nectar of flowers through a long proboscis, but nothing is yet known of their transformations. Family 22, Bombyliidce. The Bee Flies belong to this family. They are small or middle-sized insects, densely clothed with hairs. They are exceedingly active insects with long tongues, with which Fig. 139. Xylophagus Ater (Mag.j they suck honey from flowers. Their larva are often parasitic in their earlier stages on other insects. They are very useful in North America by keeping down the number of locusts, in the egg capsules of which the larva feed. Two species, Bombyliis major and B. medius, are common in this Fig. 140 Ceria Conopsoides (Mag.) country, and may often be seen in gardens and open spaces in woods during the spring and summer months. Family 23, Therevidcz. This family is a very numerous one, especially those of the typical genus Thtreva. They are slender, middle-sized black insects, and their bodies are generally covered with hair. They are generally found in the neighbourhood of bushes and trees. IOO HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Family 24, Scenopinida. The Scenopinidce include a few minute, black flies, not exceeding a quarter of an inch in length. They are not very common, but are sometimes found about windows. Family 25, Scrocerida. This family also contains small species of flies, but their metamorphoses are at present unknown. Fij. 141. Medeterus Nolatus (Mag.) They are usually to be found resting easily on dry branches of trees, but are generally rare. Family 26, Empidida. The insects of this group are very Fig. 142. Dolichopus Regalis (Mag.) similar to the Asilidce in their carnivorous propensities, but the species are usually of a much smaller size. Empis livida is a common yellowish species measuring about one-third of an inch in length. Family 27, Dohchopodidce. This family is a very extensive one, ORDER DIPTERA. 10 They They including a considerable number of genera and species, are usually small flies often of brilliant metallic colouring, may be found generally in the neighbourhood of water. Family 28, Lonchopteridce. The species of Lonchopterida are small yellowish-brown or greenish flies with lanceolate wings. Fig. 143. Scenopinus Fenestralis (Mag.) They frequent the banks of shady streams, and are often found resting on wet stones. Family 29, Syrphida. The majority of flies belonging to this family are of a moderate size, and possessed of brilliant colours. With the exception of the enormous family Muscidcz, they are one of the largest families of the Dipt era. Most of the species may be recognised at once by their pecu- Fig. 144. Syrphus Ribesii (Mag.) liar mode of flight, for they hover motionless in the air, and if alarmed dart off with a rapid motion which the eye cannot follow. Milesia Crabroniformis is a very large species common in the south of Europe. About thirty species are found in the British Isles. Of these Syrphus pyrastri is perhaps the best- known example. It is a very 102 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. wasp-like creature, and is, indeed, mistaken by many people for a wasp. It is a very useful insect, feeding largely on aphides and plant lice, and should therefore be encouraged by every horticulturist. Family 30, Conopidtz. The Iwvcz of most of these insects are parasitic on Orthoptera and Hymenoptera. Many species have a resemblance to wasps in appearance, being striped with yellow and black. The typical genus, Conops, are slender flies measuring half an inch in length. Family 31, Pipunculidce. These are black or brown insects. The head is large and round, generally broader than the thorax. The larva are mostly parasitic on other insects. The flies may often be seen in great swarms in shady places in the vicinity of hedges, in lanes, etc. Family 32, Platyptzida. -This family contains many beautiful Fig. 145. Eristalis Simili (Mag.) flies. Great numbers of them are marked with orange and silver and black. The larva inhabit fungi. Family 33, jEstrida. The Bot Flies are well known on account of the annoyance they cause to cattle. They lay their eggs upon the hides of the animals, and the larva, when hatched, make their way under the skin, and there take up their abode, living on the juices of their unfortunate host. It is estimated that the loss occasioned by these troublesome pests amounts to millions of pounds in the British Isles alone. The best-known species is pro- bably ^strus bovis, which infests the ox. The cattle are so well aware of the danger attending the presence of this insect, that as soon as it appears near them, the whole herd exhibits the most unmistakable signs of terror, rushing about their pasture with their tails in the air, and in case of need taking refuge in water, where the fly will not follow them. Miss E. A. Ormerod has ORDER DIPTERA. 1 03 recently paid much attention to the economy of this insect, with the view to finding some remedy for its attacks. Fig. 146. Nemestnna Long irostris (Mag.) Family 34, Muscidce. The Musddce is the most numerous family, of the Diptera and it includes many familiar insects. It is 104 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC divided into two sections, containing thirteen sub-families. The first section, Calypterce, contains five sub-families. The Tachinincz Fig. 147. Volucella Zonaria. are parasitic in the larval stage on Lepidoptera. The largest of the Muscidce found in Europe is Echinomyria grossa, which measures about three-quariers of an inch in length. Fig. 148. Conops Flavipes (Mag.) Many species of the Dexincz are of the most metallic-green or blue. They are principally found in Australia. The Flesh Fly (Sarcophaga carnarid] belongs to the Sarcophagincz Fig. 149. Myopa Ferruginea (Mag.) and is one of our largest species. The larva of some species are called "Screw Worms " in America. ORDER DIPTERA. IO5 The fourth sub-family, the Muscina, contains the most typical species of the Diptera or two- winged flies. The common House Fly (Musca domesticd) is the most familiar example. Several blue- and-green flies are produced from larva which feed on more or less putrid flesh, and are well known to anglers as " Gentles." The Blow Fly or Blue Bottle (Musca vomitoria) is one of these, Fig. 150. Platypeza Fasciata (Mag.) also the Green Bottle Fly (Lurilia Casar] which is often common about hedges in the summer time. Many species belong to the sub-family Anthomyiina, are very small insects, and their larva mine in the leaves of plants like those of Tinea Section 2, namely Acalyptera, contains eight sub-families. The species of Scalophagina are usually called "Dung-flies." Fig. 151. Gastrophilus Equi (Mag.) The commonest species, the Yellow Dung Fly (Scatofihaga ster- corana), feeds largely on manure and other refuse. The Ortalina are flies of small or moderate size, which are met with principally in woods and fields. The Trypetina feed chiefly on fruit. One species, Ceratitis hispantca, is very destructive to oranges in the south of Europe, etc Of the Piophilina^ Piophila- casei may be taken as the typical example. The larva which io6 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. abound in cheese and bacon are popularly called " Cheese Hoppers," or " Jumpers," in allusion to their habit of springing. The Diopsina are principally met with in the tropical parts of the world. They are generally insects of moderate size. Most of the Fig. 152. Hypoderma Bovis (Mag.) species of Ckloropina are of small size. Their larva generally live in the stems of corn and various kinds of grasses. The Drosophilince are small, dull-coloured flies, the larva of which feed on fungi, rotten fruit, and similar substances. The last sub-family, namely, the Agromyzina, is very extensive. One of the commonest species is Phytomyza iliris, the larva of which forms large brown blotches on the leaves of the holly. Fig. 153. Diopsis Subfasciata (Mag.) Family 35, Phortdce. The insects belonging to this family are generally of small or moderate size. They are very active, and may be observed on plants, and also sometimes sunning themselves on windows. TRIBE III. HOMALOPTERA. The insects belonging to this section much resemble spiders in appearance. They are all parasitic, and are remarkable for the ORDER DIPTERA. lO/ perfect insect producing its young singly, and that not in the egg state, as in most insects, but either in the pupa state, or as a mature larva ready to become a pupa immediately. This tribe contains only three families. Family 36, Hippobosridce. The most familiar insects comprised in this family are known as " Forest Flies." The common Forest Fly (Hippobosca equma) is a brown species about one-third of an inch in length, and exceedingly annoying to horses, particularly in 154. Oscinis Cornuta (Mag.) the New Forest. The Sheep Tick (Melophagus ovinus] is another well-known example. Family 37, Nycteribida. These insects are all parasitic on bats, and are commonly known as " Bat Lice." They are wing- less, but have a pair of halteres placed upon the dorsal surface. Family 38, Braulidce. This family includes only a single species, Fig. 155. Phora Camariana (Mag.) which is parasitic upon the honey bee. Its name is Braula cceca, and it is an exceedingly minute creature. TRIBE VI. APHANIPTERA. The tribe Aphaniptera was formerly considered to be a separate order, but it is now generally included among the Diptera on account of the similarity in the transformations besides other considerations. There is only one family. 108 HANDBOOK OF ANTS, BEES, ETC. Family 39, Piilicida. To this family belongs the numerous species of fleas which infest different kinds of animals. The Human Flea (Pulex irritans) is familiar to every one. It gets its living by sucking our blood, and is of great annoyance, particularly in hot weather. The blisters which it raises on various parts of the body are exceedingly irritating. The Dog Flea (Pulex cam's] and the Cat Flea (Pulex felis) are Fig. 156. Pulex Irritans (Mag.) distinct from the above, and are chiefly confined to those animals, although they do not disdain to vary their diet occasionally with human blood. The Jigger or Chigoe (Sarcopsylla penetrans) is abundant in the West Indies and in South America. It is sometimes very annoying to travellers, burrowing deeply under the skin. The body of the female is capable of attaining to the dimensions of a pea. Printed by Hazell, Watson, & Viney, Ld.. London and Aylesbury. COINS pf MEDALS ^Bought, jgold, Valued or 6(xehanged. SPINK & SON, THE OLDEST-ESTABLISHED Coin* 17 & 18 PICCADILLY, W., AND 1 & 2 CRACECHURCH STREET, E.G., LONDON, Beg respectfully to announce that they PURCHASE OR VALUE COLLECTIONS OR SINGLE SPECIMENS OF Gold and Silver Coins and Medals, PROOFS, PATTERNS, ETC., ALSO NUMISMATIC BOOKS, CABINETS, ETC., For which they can give the Highest Obtainable Cash Prices. SPINK & SON, Established 1772. [SEE OVER. (i) Coins & Medals Bought, Sold, Valued or Exchanged. SPINK & SON, THE OLDEST-ESTABLISHED DEALERS IN COINS AND MEDALS, I & 2 GRACECHURCH STREET, E.G., and 17 & 18 PICCADILLY, W., LONDON, Beg respectfully to announce that they -vl HAVE FOR SALE !> THE FOLLOWING SPECIALITIES AT LOW PRICES I ENGLISH COLD, SILVER, AND COPPER COINS. FINE PROOFS, PATTERNS, ETC. FOREIGN GOLD, SILVER AND COPPER COINS. TOKENS OF EVERY VARIETY IN SILVER AND COPPER. WAR MEDALS AND DECORATIONS. COIYIIYIEIYIORATIVE MEDALS. [BRATED MEN. IVIEDALS IN SILVER AND BRONZE OF CELE- IYIEDALS OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS, ETC. EARLY BRITISH COINS IN GOLD, SILVER AND COPPER. ROMAN DITTO. GREEK INDIAN ,, EARLY COLONIAL EARLYAMERICAN COIN CABINETS. MEDAL CABINETS. NUMISMATIC WORKS BY THE BEST AUTHORS. CHEAP COINS OF EVERY DESCRIPTION (LIST FREE). ;.M><*;**;^^^ Read Spink & Son's "MONTHLY NUMISMATIC CIRCULAR," Sample Number Gratis, and Post Free. All Coins and Medals guaranteed genuine. THE TRADE SUPPLIED UPON LIBERAL TERMS. SPINK & SON, Established 1772. (2) PUBLISHED BY SWAN SONNENSCHEIN & CO., LONDON. Aveling (Dr. E.). INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF BOTANY. With 271 Illustrations. 45. 6d. AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF GEOLOGY. Fully Illustrated. Castle (Lewis) FLOWER GARDENING FOR AMATEURS: in Town, Suburban, and Country Gardens. Illustrated. 25. 6d. Cheap Edition, is. Clement (Dr. E.). TABULAR VIEW OF GEOLOGICAL SYSTEMS. Limp cloth, is. Martin? (J. E.).- OUR SUMMER MIGRANTS : an Account of the Migratory Birds which pass the Summer in the British Islands. With 30 Woodcuts by BEWICK. 8vo, gilt edges, ys. 6d. Hatch (Dr. F. H.). AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF PETROLOGY. 43 Cuts. 35. 6d. Second Edition. Hay (W. de Lisle) THE FUNGUS-HUNTER'S GUIDE. Fully Illustrated and Interleaved with Writing-Paper for Field Me- moranda. Limp cloth. 35. 6d. Mayiie-Reid (Capt.). THE NATURALIST IN SILURIA. Illus- trated. 35. 6d. Montagu (Colonel) DICTIONARY OF BRITISH BIRDS. Edited by EDWARD NEWMAN, F.L.S., F.Z.S. 8vo. 75. 6d. Roberts (Dr. C.). THE NATURALIST'S DIARY : a Day-Book of Meteorology, Phenology, and Rural Biology. With Coloured Flower Chart. 8vo. Limp cloth. zs. 6d. White (Gilbert)- THE NATURAL HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES OF SELBORNE. Standard Edition by BENNETT, thoroughly revised, with additional notes, by J. E. HARTING, F.L.S., F.Z.S. Engravings by BEWICK, HARVEY, and others. 8vo. Cloth. 45. net. [Standard Authors Series. Presentation Edition, cloth extra, full gilt side and edges, js. 6d. Wood (Theodore) -THE FARMER'S FRIENDS AND FOES: a Popular Treatise on the various Animals which affect British Agriculture beneficially or injuriously. Illustrated. 35. 6d. (3)