TIGER MOTHS. 315 



In accordance with that beautiful harmony prevalent 

 throughout the works of nature, the general colouring of 

 moths, both of evening and night, is of that subdued tone 

 which, like night-blowing flowers the " Flores tristes colore et 

 odore " seems to correspond best with the hours of their ap- 

 pearance. This usual absence of brilliant tints is, as we have 

 already exemplified, amply atoned for by the soft, richly - 

 blended shading, and exquisitely pencilled variety of pattern, 

 which render the wings of moths perfect bijoux of natural 

 mosaic; but there are not wanting among them scattered 

 specimens painted in another style in bright and glowing 

 colours, laid on in broad effective masses. Of this we have a 

 ready example in one of the commonest, yet withal hand- 

 somest of our night-fliers, yclept " the Tiger ;" the rich em- 

 blazonment of whose ample pinions has been likened by no 

 mean poet to that of an ancient window : 



" All diamonded with panes of quaint device, 

 Innumerable of stains, and splendid dyes, 

 As are the Tiger Moth's deep damask wings."* 



The prevailing hues of this beautiful genus are black, crim- 

 son, and yellow, or cream-colour, disposed elegantly in spots 

 and bars. The most common of several species is the " Great 

 Tiger,"f found in all parts of Britain from June to August. 

 Its foremost wings are of rich dark brown, varied by zigzag 

 bars of cream colour; the hinder, of brilliant scarlet with 



* Keats. t Arctia caja. 



