35 



It may be necessary to state, that it is by 

 far the most preferable mode to collect the cater- 

 pillars and rear them, as the perfect insects which 

 are caught on the wing are seldom found in a fine 

 state. By rearing the caterpillars with ordinary 

 care, and watching the appearance of the perfect 

 insect, fine specimens may be obtained. It is, 

 however, by no means intended to dissuade the 

 collector from capturing them under any circum- 

 stances, for many species are only to be obtained 

 in their winged state 3 their caterpillars being 

 unknown. The middle and latter end of May, 

 is the harvest to the collector of Spring cater- 

 pillars ; or, if the season be backward, from the 

 beginning to the middle of June j and every ex- 

 ertion should be made to obtain as many of each 

 sort as can be conveniently supplied with food. 

 These must be very carefully handled, and de- 

 posited in the box carried for the purpose, taking 

 care to put into it some leaves of the different 

 plants on which they were found, and not forget- 

 ting to carry home a good supply. When taken 

 home, they should be immediately placed in the 

 breeding cage, and when it is necessary to re- 



