2g2 INSECT LIFE. 



holding the net in a vertical position between the 

 feet, and overturning the stones in the bed of the 

 stream in front of the net with a hoe or garden rake. 

 If the current is swift enough many of the insects 

 that live beneath such stones will be swept into the 

 net. 



Sugaring. — The method of collecting insects 

 known among entomologists as sugaring is one of 

 the most important to -the collector of night-flying 

 moths. Other insects can be taken in this way, but 

 not in so great numbers as moths. A paste is made 

 of sugar and water. Unrefined sugar is the best for 

 this purpose, as it has a stronger odor than white 

 sugar. The paste should be thin enough to be used 

 with a brush, but not so thin thafit will flow from 

 the objects to which it is applied. This paste is ap- 

 plied immediately after sunset to the trunks of trees, 

 to fences, and to other suitable objects. In each case 

 a patch about two inches wide and several inches 

 long is made. After dark these baits are visited by 

 the collector, who carries a lantern and several cyanide 

 bottles. One bottle is needed for storing the speci- 

 mens after they have become quiet, and several bot' 

 ties for collecting. Some collectors use a dark lan- 

 tern, but an ordinary lantern will serve the purpose. 

 This should be hung on the left arm, leaving both 

 hands free to manipulate the collecting bottle. 



If a patch of sugar be approached cautiously, 

 usually the light can be directed upon it without dis- 

 turbing the moths that are there feeding. If a speci- 

 men is seen that is desired, the cork can be removed 

 from the collecting bottle with the left hand and the 

 bottle placed over the specimen. The insect will 



