14 HABITS AND INSTINCTS OF ANIMALS. CHAP. V. 



pillars (fig. 55.) immediately enter, boring downwards a 

 cylindrical cell to the centre of the stem, where it finally 



55 



takes up its abode. It secures the entrance by weaving a 

 convex covering or door (Jig. 56. a). This door is fastened 

 securely on the upper end, 

 while the lower is left in such 

 a manner that the larva can 

 pass and repass at pleasure. 

 After sunset, the cautious in- 

 mate sallies forth to provide 

 food. He cuts off the leaves, 

 and conveys them, one by 

 one, to the mouth of his 

 cave, into which he then de- 

 scends, and draws his pro- 

 vender after him : this la- 

 borious occupation is con- 

 tinued during the whole 

 night ; but, on the approach 

 of day, he retires with preci- 

 pitation to his retreat, and 

 begins quietly to regale upon 

 the provisions he has col- 

 lected.* We were puzzled 

 to conjecture in what manner 

 these industrious caterpillars 

 could open the door of their hut when their mouth was 



* See Lewin's Ins. of Nat. Hist. pi. 10. 



