TIGEE MOTHS. 315 



In accordance with that beautiful harmony prevalent 

 throughout the works of nature, the general colouring of moths, 

 both of evening and night, is of that subdued tone which, 

 like night-blowing flowers the "Mores tristes color e et 

 odore" seems to correspond best with the hours of their 

 appearance. This usual absence of brilliant tints is, as we 

 have already exemplified, amply atoned for by the soft, richly- 

 blended shading, and exquisitely pencilled variety of pattern, 

 which render the wings of moths perfect bijoux of natural 

 mosaic ; but there are not wanting among them scattered 

 specimens painted in another style in bright and glowing 

 colours, laid on in broad effective masses. Of this we have a 

 ready example in one of the commonest, yet withal hand- 

 somest of oar night-fliers, yclept "the Tiger ;" the rich 

 emblazonment of whose ample pinions has been likened by no 

 mean poet to that of an ancient window.- 



" All diamonded with panes of quaint device, 

 Innumerable of stains, and splendid dyes, 

 As are the Tiger Moth's deep damask wings."* 



The prevailing hues of this beautiful genus are black, 

 crimson, and yellow, or cream-colour, disposed elegantly in 

 spots and bars. The most common of several species is the 

 " Great Tiger/'t found in all parts of Britain from June to 

 August. Its foremost wings are of rich dark brown, varied 

 by zigzag bars of cream colour ; the hinder, of brilliant scarlet 



* Keats. t Arclia caja. 



