98 BUFF-TIP MOTH. 



mucli damage to the foliage. These caterpillars 

 are gregarious, always feeding in company, and 

 sometimes travelling in long processions, mar- 

 shalled as correctly as disciplined troops. 



It is rather a pretty and conspicuous cater- 

 pillar ; but, owing to its fondness for the upper 

 branches of trees, is seldom seen until it is full- 

 fed and descends for the purpose of seeking a 

 refuge for its impending change. The most 

 characteristic point about this larva is the series 

 of black, short lines which are drawn along the 

 body, as if with a pen and ruler, and which 

 curiously resemble in their order the arrange- 

 ment in which the larvae sometimes march. 



About the end of July or beginning of August 

 these caterpillars may be seen by hundreds, 

 crawling rapidly over the hard ground for the 

 purpose of finding a convenient resting-place. 

 At this time of year the caterpillars are quite a 

 nuisance in my own house, which is situated in 

 Kent, crawling in at every open door and 

 window, and especially traversing the porch in 

 such numbers that it is scarcely possible to leave 

 or enter the house without crushing some of 

 them under foot. 



'ihe favourite place of refuge is the foot of 

 some tree, but the chrysalis is so hardy that it 



