32 STOEIES OF INSECT LIFE. 



abundant in the sandy soil beneath overhanging ledges or by 

 the sides of fallen logs. 



In many localities these insects are called "doodle bugs," 

 because when boys put their mouths close to the pits and call 

 " doodle, doodle " repeatedly, the little creatures, probably 

 thinking some insect is at hand, come to the surface. Some 

 charming verses concerning this practice have been written 

 by James Whitcomb Riley. 



You may easily study the habits of ant-lions by placing them 

 in pans or dishes holding three or four inches of dry sand. 

 Feed them with ants or other wingless insects. When you are 

 satisfied with watching them, put the ant-lions where they can 

 get their own living and do not cruelly leave them to starve. 



