286 



NEUROPTERA. 



coming notched and jagged. The antennae of the Bird-lice are 

 composed of four or five joints ; those that we get on the mam- 

 malia (Trichodecfefi) have three-jointed antennae. These must 

 not be confounded with the piercing-mouthed lice (Hamatopiniis). 

 Prevention and Traitment. — All fowls should have "dust- 

 baths," so that they can rid themselves of these pests. Eoad 

 dust and lime or gypsum and a little paraffin make as good a 

 mixture as any. All brood-hens should be dressed around the 

 rump and under the wings with mercurial ointment before being 

 set, and young chicks should be similarly dressed up the neck 

 to kill the tick-like species [G. Eynsfordii) which stunts their 

 growth so seriously. 



Laoe-wing Flies (HEMEROBiiDiE). 



Lace-wing flies are of much service to us as a natural enemy 

 of plant-lice. They are beautiful Xeuroptera, with clear lace- 

 like wings, bright shiny golden 

 eyes, and green or yellowish- 

 green bodies. Some have the 

 power of giving forth a very 

 offensive smeU when touched. 

 The eggs of the "Golden Eye" 

 are peculiar structures, laid on 

 long stalks (fig. 166, c) in 

 groups upon the leaves of 

 plants and trees. The larva:" 

 (a) are provided with a power- 

 ful sickle-shaped pair of jaws, 

 by means of which they 

 ravenously devour the Dolphins ; and having sucked out their 

 life-juices, they throw the empty skins over their back to form 

 a protection against the prying eyes of birds. Beneath this 

 curious Periclean covering the larva pupates. The larvaj are 

 often called Aphis Lions. A number of diiferent species exist. 



Fia. I6l3. — TiAcE-wTKO Fly 



A, (.arvn, or Apliis Lion (fi 

 arUilt; f, ova (reduced). 



■■1); .<, 



