PRODUCTION OF SOUNDS BY INSECTS. 
515 
it is occasioned by the striking of its mandibles upon the 
wood. The sound is evidently intended by the animal as a 
means of communication with its fellows; for if it be an¬ 
swered it is continually repeated, whilst if no answer be 
returned the animal repeats the signal in another place. The 
noise exactly resembles that pro¬ 
duced by tapping moderately 
with the nail upon the table; 
and, when familiarised, the insect 
will very readily answer this imi¬ 
tation.—The most remarkable 
example of the production of 
sounds for the purpose of autho¬ 
rity, is that of the Queen-Bee; which has the power of 
influencing the whole hive, especially about the time of 
swarming, by the peculiar notes she produces. 
678. Many Insects have the power of expressing their 
passions, also,—as fear, anger, sorrow, joy, or love,—by the 
sounds they can generate. The most curious of those given 
out under the influence of alarm is that produced by the 
Sphinx Atropos or Death’s-head Hawk-moth (fig. 258); which 
Fig. 258.— Sphikx Atropos. 
when confined, or taken into the hand, sends forth a strong 
and sharp cry, resembling, some say, that of a mouse, but 
more plaintive and even lamentable. The means by which 
this cry is produced, have not yet been certainly ascertained. 
The influence of anger , sorrow , and joy, in modifying the tone 
of the hum of Bees, is well known to those who have studied 
their habits; the first is particularly evident in the sharp 
angry tone which is heard when the hive has been disturbed, 
especially if some of the Bees have been killed; the second 
l l 2 
Fig. 257. —Anobium. 
Natural size and magnified. 
