260 BULLETIN UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA 



name them without charge. For much work in nature study a name Is 

 unnecessary, but it is very desirable. There are no keys available for 

 identification of western species. 



It will be seen from the above that the molluscan fauna of the west 

 end of the state is entirely different from that of the east end, but seven 

 being found on both sides of the mountains. As very few collections have 

 been made it is very desirable that material be secured from various sec- 

 tions, and correspondence is invited on the subject and specimens very 

 much desired. If teachers will suggest to pupils the desirability of gather- 

 ing a few specimens the boys will probably bring them if they are in the 

 neighborhood. 



If the animals die, or if it is desired that they be killed so the shells 

 may be used, the process of cleaning the shells and removing the dead 

 animals is very simple. The shells containing the animals are dropped 

 in hot water, and left for a few minutes. This quickly kills the animals 

 and loosens them from the shell. The soft parts may then be removed 

 by a bent pin or a piece* of small wire bent at an angle at the end. Per- 

 fect specimen may then be made by washing out the inside with a pipette 

 or small syringe. By gently rubbing the outside with a tooth or nail 

 brush and water the outside may be shown off to best advantage. Such 

 shells will ornament any school room or cabinet of collections. 



Some of the suggestive points to which attention should be called may 

 now be given. 



Habitat. This includes the natural home, whether in water or on 

 land, in the open or among dense vegetation. If among rocks the nature 

 of the rocks should be determined. Shells found in water will suggest 

 running water, sand banks, rocky bottom, shallow ponds, lake swamps, 

 cold springs, or some other varying condition. Every phase of the en- 

 vironment should be noted, and suggestions thrown out for the purpose of 

 having the pupils secure the information individually. 



Movements. These may easily be watched, if specimens are kept 

 in the snailery. It is very essential that the conditions in which the snail 

 is placed should be as lifelike as possible, so as to be able to study move- 

 ments that are natural and not forced. The animal may be watched 

 while crawling around over the vegetation or along the sides of the aquar- 

 ium. The use of the tenacles, the protrusion of the body from the shell, 

 the withdrawal into the shell in times of danger, the action of the creep- 

 ing foot during progression, and the movements of the mouth in feeding, 

 all should be noted if possible. 



Color and markings. Dead and bleached shells are not of much value, 

 but are better than none. From them few conclusions may be drawn 

 except as to size and shape. Teachers who understand the theory of 

 protective resemblance will find shells suggestive of many things to which 

 reference may be made. Those who do not understand it should make 

 haste to consult some good zoology and discover its meaning. Shells 

 generally resemble the surroundings so closely that they must be sought 

 closely. I have frequently tried the experiment of searching a given 

 spot carefully, to be followed by a second person who will see how many 

 I have missed. A new spot is chosen and the order is reversed. Rarely 



