METAMORPHOSIS OF GAD FLIES. 133 
included in the genus Tabanus, the history appears to be that they 
pass their first stage of life as cylindrical grubs, very like those of the 
Daddy Longlegs (Tipule), and mostly in damp ground, decaying vege- 
table matter, and the like places; and when the time for the change 
to the chrysalis state arrives—this takes place much as with the 
Tipule before mentioned—casting off the outer larval skin, and 
completing development within a pellicle showing the limbs and shape 
of the forming insect, and from which it presently emerges by cracking 
open the skin, and leaving it remaining as it stood, partly fixed and 
upright in the ground. 
There appears no possible way of getting rid of the insects (as in 
the case of other attacks) in larval condition, for we have no guide to 
where they may be lying in the woodland or damp locality. 
The chief available means of prevention appear to be applications 
to the coats of the horses or cattle exposed to their attacks which may 
be obnoxious to the insects, and therefore deterrent. Some of these, 
like the application of weak phenyle, recommended by Dr. Spooner 
Hart, appear sure to be of service, and the remedies mentioned on the 
authority of Mr. T. B. Goodall, of Christchurch, and other residents 
in or near the Forest, could not fail also to be useful. Such measures 
of protection as nets, ear-caps, &c., to keep the insects to some degree 
from being able to get at the hide of the animals, are too well-known 
to need comment. 
