210 ON THE BLIGHT OF OAKS IN THE 
clouded sun. The spectacle, as may be supposed, 
was at once highly singular and interesting. 
During the continuation of these insects in the 
larva state, various species of the feathered tribes 
feasted upon them luxuriously. The Wood-Wren, 
Yellow Wren, Whitethroat, and, indeed, the Warblers 
generally were among the most vigilant and destruc- 
tive of their enemies, and must have reduced their 
numbers greatly. The Finches also, particularly the 
Chaffinch and House-Sparrow, were indefatigable in 
quest of them; and even the Domestic Poultry 
sought with avidity for those which, by design or 
accident, descended to the ground. 
In the month of June they underwent their second 
change, or were converted into chrysalides; and in 
this almost inactive stage of existence, in which 
several of the animal functions are suspended and 
others are only imperfectly exercised, they displayed 
an instinct deserving particular notice. Concealed 
within the cavities which they had formed when 
caterpillars, by folding down the edges of the leaves 
and securing them in that position with a little of the 
glutinous secretion discharged by the spinning-appa- 
ratus, they awaited their final transformation ; but, as 
if aware that so confined a situation would present 
too many obstacles for a delicate and newly disclosed 
moth to overcome, without incurring a great risk of 
sustaining injury at the important crisis, they made 
their way to the mouths of their retreats, and pro- 
