94 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. [P.D.123. 



winter conditions are successfully met by these insects, we 

 may expect them to be a serious pest next year, as few of them 

 this fall appeared to be parasitized. 



Another unusually abundant insect this year was the squash- 

 vine borer (Melittia satyrinijormis Hbn.), whose work became 

 evident early in August. In one field seen by the writer, only 

 4 plants out of about 400 survived, and half a dozen or more 

 larvae were often found in a single plant. 



During August in western Massachusetts the fall web-worm 

 (Hyphaniria cunea Drury) was unusually abundant, its webs 

 being noticeable everywhere. This insect has not been much 

 in evidence before this year for some time. 



The house fly {Musca domestica L.), always abundant by 

 September, became so early in August this year, and has ap- 

 peared to be present in larger numbers than usual. 



Insecticides, following other war conditions, have increased 

 in price, and in many cases have been difficult to obtain when 

 needed. It would seem wise to watch the markets during the 

 present winter and take advantage of any marked reduction, in 

 order to lay in a supply for next season. 



H. T. FERNALD, 



Entomologist. 



