HYMENOPTERA. 



Ill 



This insect (Fig. 355) makes its nest in the stalk of a bramble or briar 

 (Fig. 358) with a mortar which it prepares. The larva (Fig. 356) 

 lines its cell with a silky cocoon. The last egg laid is hatched the 



Fig- 355. — A species of Odynerus. 



fij- 356-— Larva 7f the 

 Odynerus. 



Fig. 357.— Pupa of 

 the Odynerus. 



first ; then come the others, in an inverse order from that in which 

 they were deposited. If it had been in the other order, the insects 



Fig. 358.— Nest of a i Odynerus in the stem of a bramble. 



could not have come out of the cells without destroying on their way 

 the less advanced pupa (Fig. 357). 



Ants. 



The habits of the Ants are as remarkable as the habits of the 

 bees. In their marvellous republics each one has his fixed duties to- 

 perform, of which he acquits himself willingly and without constraint. 

 In consequence of their habits of foresight and frugaHty, ease reigns 

 in the dwellings of these little animals, which become attached to 

 their nest by a feeling of patriotism. Woe betide him who disturbs 

 them in their occupations, or destroys their house ! Like bees, they 

 form a regular republic, composed — first, of males ; secondly, of 



1 females ; thirdly of neuters, or workers. We shall see, further on, 

 the labours and the part played by each one of these three orders of 



