372 



THE LIFE OF AN INSECT. 



defence, or offence ; and very frequently in the 

 excavation of a nest or retreat for the insect. 

 They are sometimes so constructed, as to look as 

 if they were furnished with several teeth. 



The Stag-Beetle, representing its enlarged Mandibles , like hornt. 



The maxilla*,) or lower jaws, are less firm and 

 strong than the preceding ; but they are more 

 complicated in their structure, and have attached 

 to their sides remarkably delicate little processes 

 like the antennae, which are called the palpi, or, 

 less properly* feelers. The lower jaws are much 



