MOTHS OF THE LIMBERLOST 



flowers. They hang from cacti spines and over thorns 

 on the big century plant and lemon tree. When sprink- 

 ling, the hose is turned on them, as they would take the 

 rain outside. Usually they are placed in the coolest 

 spots, where ventilation is good. 



There is no harm whatever in taking them if the work 

 is carefully and judiciously done. With you they are safe. 

 Outside they have precarious chance for existence, for 

 they are constantly sought by hungry squirrels and field 

 mice, while the sharp eyes and sharper beaks of jays, and 

 crows, are forever searching for them. The only danger is 

 in keeping them too warm, and so causing their emergence 

 before they can be placed out safely at night, after you 

 have made yourself acquainted with Luna history. 



If they are kept cool enough that they do not emerge 

 until May or June, then you have one of the most ex- 

 quisite, treats nature has in store for you, in watching the 

 damp spot spread on the top of the cocoon where an acid 

 is ejected that cuts and softens the tough fibre, and allows 

 the moth to come pushing through in the full glory of its 

 gorgeous birth. Nowhere in nature can you find such 

 delicate and daintily shaded markings or colours so bril- 

 liant and fresh as on the wings of these creatures of night. 



After you have learned the markings and colours, and 

 secured pictures if you desire, and they begin to exhibit 

 a restlessness, as soon as it is dusk, release them. They 

 are as well prepared for all life has for them as if they had 



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