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TRANSFORMATIONS OF INSECTS. 



The caterpillars of the genus Staiiropiis, or the Lobster 

 Moths, are more extraordinary looking than those of the puss 

 moth. They are found during August and September in large 

 forests and woods, and usually upon beech, oak, and birch 

 trees, and are very curious objects. They are of a pale or 

 reddish-brown colour, or resemble leather in their tints, so that 



THE LOBSTER MOTH {Stauropus fagi). 



The male moth. The female upon the leaf. The caterpillar with its tail end in the air, 

 and the long legs close to the head. 



they are not remarkable for beauty ; but the second and third 

 pairs of front legs are extremely long, the first pair being absent. 

 There are two sharpish projections on every segment, from the 

 fourth to the seventh, and there is a considerable enlargement 

 of the sides of the ninth and the last segments. There are 

 two little tails. 



When quiet the caterpillar usually erects its tail end, as 

 well as the head, and the attitude renders the peculiar shape 

 of the body more striking than ever. The long fore legs are 



