INSECTA. 127 



abdomen is terminated by two horny appendages, resem- 

 bling pincers, and although this movable apparatus has 

 given rise to the popular opinion that by them the insect 

 insinuates itself into the ear, it is not to be credited, for 

 these horns are only raised in self-defense. The earwigs 

 feed on fruit, and are therefore very injurious to fruit 

 trees. 



The Cockroach (blatta orientalis) is flat ; nearly oval, 

 and has the head hidden behind the pro-thorax ; the 

 wing-cases are coriaceous, and cover the wings, which, 

 like those of the beetle, are folded under them. These 

 annoying insects are originally from the east; their 

 length is about an inch ; in color a chestnut-brown, with 

 reddish-brown wings; these wings are peculiar to the 

 male, the female are without. They remain hidden 

 during the day, but coming forth in great numbers at 

 night, they devour all kinds of provision. Where they 

 are once settled, it is a difficult matter to get rid of them, 

 and they are considered the pests of the kitchen. There 

 is a relative species, called the Surinam, Kakerlac, found 

 in the "West Indies, that constitute a real plague to 

 families. 



The Praying Mantis (mantis religiosa), plate 26, 

 fig. 10, derives its name from being supposed to fold its 

 forefeet and elevate them in the position commonly given 

 to the hands in prayer. This attitude is, however, by no 

 means devotional, but only a trap to catch insects. It is 

 two inches long ; altogether green, and on this account, 

 as well as having large wings, has sometimes been called 

 the Walking Leaf.* It is found in southern Europe; 

 as soon as a fly approaches this insect, it elevates the 



* Leaf Insect (Foliaia), which, resembling a leaf in color and shape, 

 may easily be mistaken for one. 



