THE MARCH MOTH. 25 



They become full-fed towards the end of June, prior to which, 

 however, they leave the webs and no longer live in companies. In some 

 sheltered spot, such as bark cracks, between leaves, under roofs of out- 

 buildings, etc., they spin a golden yellowish-coloured cocoon, the moths 

 hatching out in July. 



PREVENTIVE AND REMEDIAL MEASURES. 



All twigs and primings bearing the egg masses should be burnt 

 during the winter. 



Such birds as the cuckoo, blue tit, etc., feed upon the larvae. 



In orchards the webs should be collected and destroyed, and all 

 leaves, long grass, and undergrowth should be burnt. 



Much damage will be saved by spraying with arsenate of lead 

 as soon as the larvae are noticed. 



EXPLANATION OF PLATE V. 



Fig. i. The Lackey Moth (Bombyx neustria, Linn.). ? 

 Fig. 2. Egg-ring on a twig. 

 Fig. 3. Larva. 

 Fig. 4. Pupa. 



THE MARCH MOTH. 



Anisopteryx aescularia, W. V. 



The larvae and wingless females of this moth have been received 

 from different correspondents, with complaints of the former damaging 

 Apple, Pear, Elm, and Oak trees. 



As in the case of the Winter Moth, grease banding should be 

 resorted to. Trees that have been sprayed in the winter with the caustic 

 soda-emulsion, and are, in consequence free from moss, lichens and 

 broken bark, are much less likely to be attacked than neglected trees. 



THE TURNIP DART MOTH. 



Agrotis segetum, Schiff. 



This is one of the most destructive pests we have in the Midland 

 Counties at the present time ; many agriculturists, horticulturists and 

 nurserymen have complained of its depredations, which have proved 

 of a serious nature in some cases. 



LIFE-HISTORY. 



The females lay their eggs on the ground or on the plant from 

 the end of June to the end of August, and the caterpillars emerge in 



