CONTENTS. xi 



23. THE TRIBES OF AN OAK. 



In this vignette are represented a few only of the innumerable insect inha- 

 bitants of an Oak. On the leaf at bottom is a group of the black and 

 yellow caterpillars of the Buff-tip Moth (Pygcem Bucephala), as they 

 are accustomed to repose in company after or before a change of skin. 

 Over these, a miniature file of the same, newly -hatched, are marching 

 in order over a leaf, from which, as they proceed, they strip the upper 

 surface. Higher, towards the left, is a nest of silk, with indrawn 

 leaves, woven for winter occupancy by the social caterpillars of a Gold- 

 tail Moth (Porthesia auriflua). Dependent by a silken line from 

 the branch above, hangs one of the moth caterpillars termed " Loopers " 

 (Geometrida), of which there are two others, one fixed motionless at right 

 angles with a branch, the other walking, or looping, on the edge of a 

 leaf. These occupy the right-hand oak ; and on the same, attached to 

 branches, are two of the curious structures of the moth caterpillar called 

 the Oak-bark Builder (Pyralis strigulatus). Several Tent-makers 

 (Tineidce) are traversing the intermediate leaf, and a carnivorous Beetle 

 (Scarabus clathratus) is ascending the branches in search of prey . . 94 



" Even the acorn has its appropriator." 



A golden Cicada, a little shovel-headed frequenter of the Oak, plays the part 

 of Jehu to a " Devil's Coach-horse " (or Rove Beetle), harnessed to an 

 acorn car 117 



24. A FEW FRIENDS OF OUR SUMMER GLADNESS. 



This Vignette comprises four Butterflies not figured in the Frontispiece to 

 our First Volume. That on the Thistle to the right, is the Clouded 

 Yellow (Colias edusa). That on the left, with folded wings, the Painted 

 Lady (Cynthia Cardui). The Purple Emperor (Apatura Iris), lessened 

 by distance, soars above, and flitting below is the Small Skipper (Pam- 

 phila linea] 118 



" Sipping their cups of dew." 



A trio of thirsty Butterflies, the demoiselles Pontia and Vanessa seated fore- 

 most at their leafy board 139 



