The Mason-bees 



please, does Parnopes carnea resemble the 

 Bembex into whose home she penetrates in 

 her presence? In what does the Melecta re- 

 semble the Anthophora, who stands aside on 

 her threshold to let her pass? The difference 

 of costume is most striking. The Melecta's 

 deep mourning has naught in common with 

 the Anthophora's russet coat. The Parnopes' 

 emerald-and-carmine thorax possesses not the 

 least feature of resemblance with the 

 black-and-yellow livery of the Bembex. And 

 this Chrysis also is a dwarf in comparison 

 with the ardent Nimrod who goes hunting 

 Gad-flies. 



Besides, what a curious Idea, to make the 

 parasite's success depend upon a more or less 

 faithful likeness with the insect to be robbed! 

 Why, the imitation would have exactly the 

 opposite effect! With the exception of the 

 Social Bees, who work at a common task, fail- 

 ure would be certain, for here, as among man- 

 kind, two of a trade never agree. An Osmia, 

 an Anthophora, a Mason-bee had better be 

 careful not to poke an indiscreet head in at 

 her neighbour's door: a sound drubbing 

 would soon recall her to a sense of the pro- 

 prieties. She might easily find herself with a 

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