CH. Xm.j THE ANT-LION. 219 



in the proper direction, and for this purpose bends it 

 from them, as in Jig. 4; for if they took a wrong 

 fold at this moment, they would for ever retain the 

 deformity. Provision is even made to prevent the 

 wings from coming in contact with each other ; for, 

 instead of being all in the same horizontal plane, as 

 they subsequently are, they are perpendicular to the 

 insect, and thus ranged side by side. 



CHAPTER XIII. 



THE ANT-LION. 



forms a Funnel-shaped Excavation in the Sand — Uses its Leg like a 

 Shovel to remove the Sand — Secures its Prey by Stratagem — Its Inge- 

 nuity and Perseverance in getting rid of Impediments — Spins a Co- 

 coon, and is transformed into a beautiful Fly. — The Lion- Worm. 



Of all the creatures which secure their prey by 

 stratagem, there is perhaps none more singular in 

 its manners and habits than the ant-lion {Formica- 

 ho). It is an inhabitant of the south of Europe. 

 When full grown, its length is about half an inch : 

 and in form it in some degree resembles a wood- 

 louse ; it has six legs, and the mouth is furnished 

 with a forceps, consisting of two jaws curving in- 

 wardly, which give it a very formidable appearance. 



