22 



COMMON BRITISH INSECTS. 



elytra are brown, and each of them has two white 

 spots, as shown in the illustration. The length of 

 the Beetle is designated by the line 

 drawn by its side. It can be taken 

 in various localities. Throughout 

 the year it can mostly be found by 

 removing the dead bark of trees, but 

 in winter it can sometimes be found 

 under stones and in heaps of decay- 

 ing leaves. 



The word Dromius is of Greek 

 origin, signifying a runner, and is 

 given to the members of this genus 

 in consequence of their activity. 



Dromius quadrima- 

 culatus. 



THERE is a prettily-made, though soberly co- 

 loured little Beetle, called Brachinus crepitans, the 

 latter title being given to it in consequence of a 

 most singular property which it possesses, and 

 which is almost unique in the animal kingdom. It 

 secretes a remarkable volatile fluid, which it has the 

 power of retaining or expelling at will. When 

 alarmed, it throws out a small quantity of this 

 fluid, which immediately volatilises with a slight 

 explosion when it comes in contact with the atmo- 

 sphere, and looks very much like the fire of miniature 

 artillery. In consequence of this phenomenon, the 

 insect which produces it is popularly called the Bom- 

 bardier Beetle. 



This curious property is used in defence. The 

 Beetle, being a small and comparatively feeble one, is 

 liable to be attacked by the larger Geodephaga, espe- 



