292 HORSE EMMET. 



low, and extremely sharp-pointed tube, having, at its 

 root, a bag of pungent juice, which, in the act of sting- 

 ing, is pressed out, and conveyed through the tube into 

 the flesh. There are also two small, sharp, and bearded 

 spears, which lie as in a sheath within the tube. On 

 the outer side of each are several barbs, somewhat re- 

 sembling those of fishing-hooks. These spears pass into 

 the flesh before the sting or sheath which conveys the 

 poison. 



17. ANT TRIBE. 



Each nest of Ants contains three sorts of insects : males, 

 females, and neuters. The males and females are 

 winged, and the others are destitute of these members. 

 In hot climates, the species of Ants are sometimes so 

 immensely numerous, as to commit the most injurious 

 depredations. 



Horse Emmet, or Great Hill-ant. In woods and 

 thickets, the nests of Horse Emmets are frequently to 

 be found. These are sometimes two feet and upwards 

 in diameter, and composed of a vast collection of bits 

 of dry sticks, straws, chips, and other rubbish. It is 

 curious to observe the little creatures carrying and drag- 

 ging along, even from a great distance, these substances, 

 which, in size, are oftentimes greater than that of their 

 own bodies. These ants are extremely attentive to their 

 offspring, bringing them up nearly to the surface of the 

 ground, every fine day during the summer-season ; and, 

 in the evening, carrying them down again to such a 

 depth, as to be out of the reach of injury from cold or 

 moisture. 



