THE CANADiAN EXT0M0L0G18T. . AS 



intervals of relaxation and freedom from duty, to give it prolonged and 

 careful attention for many consecutive days. In not a single instance did 

 it assume the attitude so eminently characteristic of the Sphinx family. 



One other peculiar trait of its nature it was my happy fortune to 

 observe. Caterpillars, as is well known, have a variety of ways for 

 defending themselves against the annoyances and assaults of their 

 enemies. While some are provided with hairs which act as irritating 

 causes when brought into contact with highly sensitive surfaces, others are 

 furnished with fearful looking spines which infuse a feeling of horror into 

 their enemies, even when they have not the power to act as irritants. This 

 species, presenting an almost perfectly smooth bodily surface, assuredly 

 makes up from its lack of integumentary appendages, in being armed with 

 a pair of powerful tridentate mandibles, which it uses freely and indis- 

 criminately. 



Hundreds of Lepidopterous larvae have been handled with impunity 

 by the writer, and this new method of self-defence, even where manifested, 

 has been so slight as not to attract much attention. In this case the 

 insect seemed unwilling to permit any familiarities. The softest touch of 

 the finger was sharply resented. On one occasion the writers finger was 

 seized and held on to with such pertinacity, as to require considerable 

 effort at extrication. The smart from this squeezing lingered for many 

 minutes afterwards — a suitable punishment for his temerity. Even when 

 laid upon the palm of the hand it continued its rapid twitchings from 

 side to side, and with gaping jaws, as if still conscious of hidden danger, 

 ready to vent the full measure of its infuriated passion upon anything that 

 should come within their scope. 



In conclusion, I am sorry to say that my vivarium having been unduly 

 tampered with during my absence, this caterpillar, which was always 

 exceedingly restless under confinement, effected its escape. On the 

 discovery of the fact dilligent search was commenced, but no clue to its 

 whereabouts could be obtained — it, doubtless, like many of its unfortunate 

 kind, having become a rich morsel for some insect-loving bird. I trust to 

 be able during the gradually approaching season to secure similar larvae 

 and bring them to the imago or moth condition. 



