LIFE IN THE INSECT WORLD. 33 



called because they are always observed to per- 

 form these separate offices in the family. 



Renee. How do they know the difference 

 between them, Aunt Mary ? all ants look alike 

 to me. 



Jlunt M. If you examine them closely, you 

 will find that there is considerable difference 

 in their form ; but a very important distinction 

 between them is, that all of them, except the 

 workers, come out of their pupa cases winged 

 insects ; but after one or two flights in the air, 

 they shed their wings, and are afterwards satis- 

 fied to travel only upon land, and perform their 

 part in the management of their little home. 



The queen ant is the mother of the whole 

 tribe, and both she and her royal husband ap- 

 pear to be waited upon by their numerous chil- 

 dren with the greatest possible kindness and 

 respect. A large room is always provided solely 

 for their accommodation, which they never 

 leave, and a large body of soldiers and workers 

 are constantly in attendance upon them. 



These dutiful children manifest the greatest 

 affection for their queen mother ; sometimes 

 crawling gently over her, and sometimes seem- 

 4 



