Lepidoptcra. ^7^ 



Before leaving so interesting a subject as the life, habits, 

 and economic bearing of insects, we would draw attention to 

 one particularly important point which is the survival or 

 disappearance of certain species in the struggle for existence 

 owing to the favourable or adverse circumstances by which 

 they are surrounded. It is pretty generally known that many 

 birds feed largely upon insects, but it is not so well known 

 that whilst some insects are a favourite food, others are 

 entirely passed over owing to their obnoxious flavour. Now 

 this latter class may generally be recognised by their bright 

 colours, and attractive' markings, for being rid of so powerful 

 an enemy as birds, they would obtain no advantage by being 

 of a sombre colour. Amongst this class, we recognise Arctia 

 caja, domiinila, jacoba, filipcndnlce, Calimorpha hem, and 

 others. 



Turning, however, to the other class, the palatable ones, we 

 have an enormous number of striking illustrations of the 

 protection which such insects derive from their strong colour 

 resemblance to the objects on which they rest, and which is 

 usually the stem or trunk of the plant or tree upon the leaves 

 of which the larvae feed. 



For instance, such moths as CEsaclaria progcmiuaria and 

 others which are out in the months of January to March, 

 closely resemble in appearance the dead leaves so abundant at 

 that season. To enumerate all the examples which support 

 this interesting fact would occupy a paper in itself, but the 

 subject is one well worthy of study. 



Before proceeding to enumerate the species of our larger 

 lepidoptera which have been recorded from our district, we 

 would first propose one or two rules which those who are 

 thinking of taking up the study of entomology should follow. 



ist.— Keep a record of the time, locality, manner of capture, 

 and, if possible, state of the weather, of all butterflies or 

 moths taken. 



2nd. — Much the same as regards larvse, with the addition of 

 either a specimen, sketch, or correct name of the food-plant, 

 especially if the food-plant happen to be an unusual one for 

 that particular insect. Also record whether the larvae is feed- 

 ing on the leaves, stem, blossom, seed, capsule, or root of the 

 plant. Also whether the larvs be gregarious or solitary. 



3rd. — To draw comparisons between the records of any 

 given locality, one year with another, with probable causes, 

 meteorological or otherwise. 



4th. — To note the ravages of hurtful insects whether in 

 farm, orchard, or garden, and suggest remedies to counteract 

 their influences. 



