THE INSECT PROBLEM '21 



beetle (Chilochorus similis), which is efficient in keeping the 

 scale in check in its native home. It has not as yet proved, 

 however, an equal success in America. 



Other cases in point are the Hessian fly, cabbage butterfly, 

 codling moth, elm-leaf beetle, imported currant fly, and many 

 more ; and these illustrate the almost irresistible power of an 

 insect species when supplied with abundant food and relieved 

 from its natural enemies. They also emphasize the need of 

 watching all ports of entry with extreme care to prevent such 

 expensive importations. 



All work with insect enemies reveals the absolute necessity 

 of the general dissemination of a knowledge of the problems 

 involved. One ignorant or careless importation may cost the 

 whole country irreparable loss. A neglected garden or orchard 

 is often a menace to an entire neighborhood. For one indi- 

 vidual to try to hold such natural forces in check is discour- 

 aging and well-nigh hopeless. In the successful handling of 

 such problems all members of a community must unite. Each 

 must know and do his duty and his part. If one person can- 

 not or will not prevent his trees from breeding insect pests 

 that damage his neighbors, he should promptly cut them down 

 and burn them up. This law of nature applies with special 

 force to the intelligent protection of birds and other insec- 

 tivorous animals, in which all members of the community 

 should unite. 



