LEPIDOPTERA 



723 



and last ; the last segment is bordered by a purplish-brown V-shaped 

 mark. The tubercles on the body are small, of an orange color with 

 metallic reflections. The cocoon (Fig. 925) is dense and usually en- 

 closed in a leaf; it can be utilized for the manufacture of silk. When 



Fig. 924. — Telea polyphemus, larva. 



the adult is ready to emerge, it secretes a fluid which softens the 

 cocoon at one end, and breaking the threads by means of a pair of 

 stout spines, one on each side of the thorax at the base of the fore 

 wings, it makes its exit through 

 a large round hole. 



The Luna-moth, Tropcea 

 luna. — This magnificent moth 

 (Fig. 926) is a great favorite 

 with amateur collectors. Its 

 wings are of a delicate light 

 green color, with a purple- 

 brown band on the costa of 

 the fore wings ; there is an eye- 

 like spot with a transparent 

 center on the discal vein of 

 each wing ; and the anal angle 



of the hind wings is greatly prolonged. The larva feeds on the leaves 

 of walnut, hickory, and other forest-trees. It measures when full 



Fig. 925. — Cocoon of Telea polyphemus. 



