LACE- WING FLIES. 



257 



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

 not be confounded with the piercing-mouthed lice (Hcemato- 

 jyinus). 



Prevention and Treatment. — 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 merciirial ointment before being 

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

 to kiU the tick-like species (G. Eynnfurdii) which stunts their 

 growth so seriously. 



Lace-winq Flies (HEMEROBiiDiE). 



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

 of plant-lice. They are beautiful Neuroptera, 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 smell when touched. 

 The eggs of the " Golden Eye " 

 are peculiar structures, laid 

 on long stalks (fig. 133, c) 

 in groups upon the under- 

 side of the leaves of plants 

 and trees. The larva;, (a) are 

 provided with a powerful 

 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 j)rotection against the prying eyes 

 of birds. Beneath this curious Periclean covering the larva 

 pupates. The larvae are often called Ajjhis Lions. A number 

 of different species exist. 



Flu. 133. — Laue-wing Fly. 



A, Larva, or Apliis Liun (enlarged); 

 adult ; c, ova (reduced). 



