150 



COLEOPTEllA. 



hive-bee, which had a nest in the hollow of an oak tree 

 in the field opposite my house. They were evidently en- 

 joying themselves, feeding on the honey in the cells. 

 Whether this parasitic nature of the Cocchiellidce has 

 been noticed before or not, I do not know. 



I must not conclude this short and imperfect sketch 

 of British Insects without saying something of those 

 very minute black insects known to gardeners and 

 others by the name of Thrips. Everyone must haye 



Thrips ckrealium (magnified;. 



been annoyed by these little tickling creatures in warm 

 summer weather ; in countless multitudes they fill the 

 air, fly into our eyes, and tickle our cheeks and noses. 

 They are very common on various flowers, to which 

 they sometimes occasion much damage by eating the 

 cellular tissue of the petals. Hothouses and vinehouses 

 are especially liable to be infested by these little pests. 

 Melons and cucumbers often suffer considerably. One 

 species, wliich has been called Thrips ce.reaUum, infests 



