THE ENTOMOLOGIST'S METHODS 



The bulk of the moths found in this way may be boxed 

 without much trouble, but some kinds are rather 

 skittish and fly from their perch on the approach of the 

 collector. In such cases the net comes in handy. 



The collector will need to familiarize himself with 

 those plants whose blossoms are attractive to insects. 

 Of these sallow, which blooms in early spring, and the 

 autumnal flowering ivy are especially to be located, so 

 that each may be worked in its season. Isolated bushes 

 of the former, when growing in or near woods, are more 

 remunerative than large and dense masses. Swarms 

 of bees and flies visit the yellow catkins, the so-called 

 " palm," during the day, but at night moths gather to- 

 gether from all quarters, and carouse on the nectar 

 drawn from the blossoms. The method of collecting 

 the moths is similar to that employed in beating for 

 caterpillars just referred to. The tapping, however, 

 should be even more tenderly done. The insects fall 

 readily and will remain perfectly still for a time. When 

 they arouse themselves they crawl quietly towards 

 the edge of the umbrella or whatnot. There is always 

 plenty of time to examine the inebriates by the aid of 

 a lantern, and to select such of them as may be required. 

 Ivy is worked much in the same way, but sometimes, 

 as for instance when the plant grows on the sides of a 

 wall or house, the lantern will have to be turned on and 

 the moths boxed from the flowers direct. 



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