AND OTHER INJURIOUS INSECTS OF I907 AND I908. 4I 



The other two were observed with the same result, the depth to which 

 each one had to dig to reach the first eggs of the egg-masses being about 

 one-fourth of an inch. A male was later seen feeding on an egg-mass 

 that apparently had been denuded by a heavy shower the preceding night. 

 By microscopically examining these eggs and also eggs taken from a 

 female Melanoplus vittatus, I found that they were identical, and concluded 

 that if the crickets take such pains to obtain the eggs of this species of 

 Melanoplus they may possibly also destroy those of other species of the 

 genus, as, for instance, femur-rubrum. The Ground Crickets are here in 

 Todd County almost as numerous as the locusts, and it seems that possibly 

 one pest may effectively help to hold another in check. 



I have not been able to find any record of a like observation in the 

 orth.opteran literature that I have. In case you should wish to correspond 

 further with me with regard to this. T shall be very glad to do so if you 

 will kindly address me at Cornell University, Forest Home, Ithaca, N. Y. 



Respectfully yours, 



J. P. JENSEN. 



Crickets have long been known to be omnivorons, but this is 

 the first recorded instance, to the best of our knowledge, of his work- 

 ing a direct benefit to the farmer by consuming the eggs of locusts. 

 By all means let the good work go on, and encourage Nciiiobiits in 

 every possible way — if he does not eat binder twine. Unfortunately 

 this cricket, as well as others, does not restrict itself to a carnivorous 

 diet, btu sometimes is cjuite injurious to grain. 



