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ELEMENTARY STUDIES IN INSECT LIFE 



cloudy. The weather influences insect life very per- 

 ceptibly. The character of the insect's surroundings - 

 that is, taken under stones or logs, or feeding upon 

 certain plants --is also of importance. When insects 

 are found on plants or trees, an opportunity is afforded 

 the student to acquaint himself further with the flora of 

 his vicinity. 



This point of the food plants of insects is a very 

 important one, especially in the collection of scale in- 

 sects and plant-lice. 



Map of the Vicinity. Every student should be pro- 

 vided with a map of the vicinity of his school. This 

 map should show the section lines, all streams of any 

 importance, ranges of hills, and places of historic inter- 

 est. An idea of the scope of such a map is shown in 

 the illustration. By referring to this the student can 

 trace his various collecting trips and locate the exact 

 position of his captures. 



Manner of Keeping Records. What is the most con- 

 venient way to keep these notes? Simply place on the 

 pin beneath the insect a very small card bearing a 

 number, which might be called the accession number; 

 that is, the specimen can be numbered beginning with 

 1, and going on, no two insects bearing the same 

 number, unless they happen to be of the same species, 

 taken at the same time and under like conditions. A 

 corresponding number is entered in the field-book, and 

 opposite this number are recorded the notes and obser- 

 vations upon the insect. Remarks may be added upon 

 the habits of the insect observed ; whether active or 

 sluggish; resemblances to the surroundings; attempts 

 at defense; and other points which suggest themselves 



