COLLECTING INSECTS. 51 



cork in the way figured, leaving the head of the pin suffi- 

 ciently above the insect to grasp with the fingers. 



Care must be taken not to have the insect too far down 

 on the pin, as its legs in that case would touch the bottom of 

 the box, and break off. Insects may be killed by immersing 

 them in alcohol for a few minutes. 



FIG. 51. INSECT PINNED 



Butterflies may be killed by compressing the body be- 

 tween the thumb and forefinger, as shown in the figure, 

 using just force enough to kill, without' crushing them. 

 The fumes of benzine, or ether, and of certain poisons, will 

 also kill insects, but these substances should not be suggested 

 to young pupils, as their use is dangerous. (Teachers will 

 here use their judgment according to the character of their 

 classes.) The rude box and common pins are offered sim- 

 ply for experimental collections. The ingenuity of a pupil, 

 where neater collections are desired, will readily secure bet- 

 ter ways of making them. 



49. The pupils may go out in a class in quest of material 



