128 ANIMAL FORMS 
or even years, but when the proper time arrives the fully 
formed insect emerges, and takes to the wing. 
Wonderful internal changes have been taking place 
during this time. The organs fitted for the proper treat- 
ment of the vegetable food of the caterpillar or grub are 
destroyed, at least in part, and new systems are produced 
ready for the nectar and vegetable juices which are to be 
the food of the adult insect. All insects that pass through 
a pupal quiescent stage are said to undergo a complete 
metamorphosis. 
124. The ants, bees, wasps, etc. (Hymenoptera).— The ants, 
bees, and wasps are the best-known insects belonging to 
this order. They are characterized by four membranous 
wings, by biting and sucking mouth-parts, and the female 
is often provided with a sting. All undergo a complete 
metamorphosis. The eggs may be laid in the bodies of 
other insects, many of which are pests, and are thus de- 
stroyed; or they may be deposited in the nests of other 
insects, the foster-parents being compelled to feed them; 
or they may be placed in marvelously constructed homes, 
and be the objects of the greatest attention, the parents or 
attendants often risking or losing their lives in their 
defense. The members of this order have long attracted 
attention, largely on account of their remarkable instinc- 
tive powers. They live in highly organized communities 
and certain of their characteristics may be illustrated by 
a study of some of the more familiar forms. 
125. The ants.—The ants live in communities consisting 
of anywhere from a dozen to many thousands of individuals, 
according to the species. Each of these colonies contains 
the queen, several young winged males and females, des- 
tined as kings and queens to found new colonies, and of a 
far greater number of wingless sterile females, the workers. 
The workers construct the greater part of the nest, which 
often consists of extensive galleries, nurseries, and grana- 
ries, excavated in wood or in the earth. They also attend 
