142 



NATURAL HISTORY. 



[CH. IX. 



CHAPTER IX. 



FURTHER HISTORY OF THE COLEOPTEROUS INSECTS. 



History of the Stag-beetle, its Habits — Description of the Larva, 

 Pupa, and Cocoon — a Marvellous Story — History of the Pellet- 

 beetle, the Manner of forming its Pellet, cfc, its Strength, an 

 Emblem of the Egyptians, its Symbolical Meaning — History of 

 the Water-beetle — Description of the Nidus, Larva, its peculiarly 

 formed Jaws, the Utility of the Fringe of the Tail, its Ravages, 

 considered a Shriinp, Pupa, perfect Insect — History of the Tor- 

 toise-beetle — Descriptioji of the Larva, its Habits, Pupa, perfect 

 Insect. 



One of the largest of our indigenous insects is the 

 stag-beetle {Lucanus cervus). It is chiefly found in 



narrow shady lanes, generally on an oak or elm tree. 

 The perfect insect attacks the roots and leaves of 

 those trees. It lies concealed in their stumps du- 

 ring the day, and feeds only during the evening. 



