ANIMAL STUDIES 



adhere to our fingers when handled. This feature, and the 

 general plan of the body, which is much the same through- 

 out the group, enables us to recognize most of them at once.. 



FIG. 84. The silver-spot (Argynnis cybele). Photograph by A. L. MELANDER and 



C. T. BRUES. 



133. The ants, bees, wasps, etc. (Hymenoptera). The ants, 

 bees, and wasps are the best-known insects belonging to 

 this order. They are characterized by four membranous 

 wings, by biting and sucking mouth-parts, and the female 

 is often provided with a sting. All undergo a complete 

 metamorphosis. The eggs may be laid in the bodies of 

 other insects, or they may be placed in marvelously con- 

 structed homes, and be the objects of the greatest atten- 

 tion, the parents or attendants often risking or losing their 

 lives in their defense. The members of this order have 

 long attracted attention, largely on account of their re- 

 markable instinctive powers. They live in highly organized 

 communities, and certain of their characteristics may be 

 illustrated by a study of some of the more familiar forms. 



