150 LIFE IN THE INSECT WORLD. 



some of pollen, which they use in the prepara- 

 tion of food for their young. Do you know 

 what pollen is ? 



Harriet. Pollen is the yellow dust found in 

 flowers, is it not ? 



Aunt M. Yes, it is found on the stamens or 

 little threads around the centre of the flower. 



Bees have a hollow in each of their hind 

 legs, somewhat in the shape of a basket, the 

 bottom hard and smooth, and the sides lined 

 with hairs; in which they carry propolis and 

 pollen. 



When they have packed these curious little 

 baskets with propolis, patting it down so as to 

 make them hold as much as posible, they return 

 with their treasure to the hive. Their arrival 

 produces an interesting scene of active industry 

 within their little home. Some of their com- 

 panions unload them ; some pile up the propolis 

 in heaps on the floor of the hive ; others 

 hasten to spread it out in flakes before it be- 

 comes dry ; and others, taking small portions of 

 it in their mouths, begin to cement and varnish 

 the cells. 



Those who are thus engaged in finishing the 



