84- METHOD OF RELAXttfG DRIED INSECTS. 



relaxed, they must be treated in exactly the same manner as 

 recent specimens. 



We must again caution the Entomologist to be careful that 

 he applies the solution of corrosive sublimate to all his species, 

 otherwise there is little chance of their continuing long with- 

 out being attacked by the Mite ; tiiey ought to be frequently 

 imbued. 



Mr Waterton, who has studied deeply the subject of preserv- 

 ing animal substances, and applied them not only in our own 

 country, but also under the influence of a tropical climate,, 

 makes the following observations on the preservation of Insects : 

 " I only know of two methods," says he, te to guard preserved 

 insects from the depredations of living ones. The first is, by 

 poisoning the atmosphere the second is, by poisoning the 

 prepared specimens themselves, so effectually, that they are 

 no longer food for the depredators. But there are some ob- 

 jections to both these modes ; a poisoned atmosphere will eva- 

 porate in time if not attended to, or if neglected to be re- 

 newed ; and there is great difficulty in poisoning some speci- 

 mens on account of their delicacy and minuteness. If you keep 

 spirits of turpentine in the boxes which contain your preserved 

 specimens, I am of opinion that those specimens will be safe as 

 long as the odour of the turpentine remains in the box, for it 

 is said to be the most pernicious of all scents to insects. But 

 it requires attention to keep up an atmosphere of spirit of tur- 

 pentine , if it be allowed to evaporate entirely, then there is a 

 clear and undisputed path open to the inroads of the enemy ; 

 he will take advantage of your absence or neglect, and when 

 you return to view your treasure you will find it in ruins. 

 Spirits of turpentine poured into a common glass inkstand, in 

 which there is a piece of sponge, and placed in a corner of 

 your box, will create a poisoned atmosphere and kill every in- 

 sect there. The poisoning of your specimens by means of cor- 

 rosive sublimate in alcohol, is a most effectual method. As 

 soon as the operation is properly performed, the depredating 

 insect perceives that the prepared specimen is no longer food 

 for it, and will for ever cease to attack it ; but then every part 

 must have received the poison, otherwise those parts where the 

 poison has not reached will still be exposed to the enemy, and 

 he will pass unhurt over the poisoned parts till he arrives at 



