FOURTEENTH ANNUAL REPORT OF STATE ENTOMOLOGIST 67 



not only is the root-louse controlled but that the tonnage and sugar 

 content of the beets are distinctly increased by the method of irriga- 

 tion advocated. It seems clear that this work will lead to very 

 largely increased financial returns to sugar beet growers in Montana 

 and other western States. 



THE LESSER CLOVER LEAF WEEVIL 



( Pliytonomus nigrirostris) 



During tlie past two years the lesser clover leaf weevil has 

 appeared in great numbers and has been doing damage in one valley 

 in western Montana. The insects feed on the growing clover and 

 are found principally in the terminal growth and opening blossom 

 heads. The larva or "rub looks very much like the alfalfa weevil 

 and might easily be mistaken for that insect. 



This office has given careful attention to this weevil during the 

 last two years and will continue the study when there is an oppor- 

 tunity. 



THE SPINOSE EAR TICK 



(OrintJwJoros megnini Duges) 



One of the surprises of the past year was the discovery of the 

 Spineose ear tick on cattle in eastern Montana. This tick has the 

 habit of infesting the ear passages of its host. Surprisingly large 

 numbers of these ticks were taken from the ears of calves and young 

 stock. The effects noted here are much the same as in other parts 

 of the country. Infested stock is irritated and does not do well. 

 Some lose flesh and some die. Fiom what we know at the present 

 time, it seems clear that this tick is present in several counties. 



This has been looked upon as a southern species. It occurs in 

 Mexico and in some of the southern States, but it was not supposed 

 that it could endure our climate and be abundant enough to be 

 injurious. In looking up its occurrence in Montana, it was learned 

 that it had been present in the same localities for several years and 

 we now think that this tick is liable to be an important pest. Fur- 

 ther attention will be given to it and though no satisfactory remedies 

 are now known, it is hoped that some may be found. 



FOUL BROOD OF BEES 



In each annual report of the State Entomologist since 1911, 

 urgent attention has been called to the presence and rapid spread of 

 American foulbrood disease in bees in Montana. We knew of it 



