ZOOLOGY. 433 
Heteromera, characterized principally by the number of the tarsal 
joints and other characters of less moment; the Jsomera are again. 
divisible into two parallel series, known generally as Pentumera 
and Tetramera though the names are not rigidly exact. The Pen- 
tamera embrace the bulk of the Coleoptera, and contain all the 
abnormal tarsal variations; this section was subdivided into five 
series, the Adephaga (second ventral segment visible at the sides) ; 
Clavicornes (antenne normally clavate, tarsi variable) ; Lamelli- 
cornes (antenne lamellate, anterior coxal cavities closed) ; Serri- 
cornes (antennæ pectinate or serrate, anterior cavities open) ; 
Detailed characters were added for the families of Clavicornes, 
which were divided into three main groups characterized by the 
development of the anterior coxze, which are prominent and con- 
tiguous in Silphide, etc., globose and separate in Erotylide, ete., 
and transverse and separate in Nitidulide, etc. The families Rhys- 
sodide and Othniide were removed to the Adephaga and Hetero- 
mera respectively (Pr oceedings of American Philosophical Society, 
January 7, 1873). 
Do RATTLESNAKES CLIMB TREES? — In the attractive volume en- 
titled “ The Animal Creation ;” by T. Rymér Jones, New York, 
1873, we find the author asserting that they do not climb 
trees ;” but on the preceding page; p- 291, we find the rattlesnake 
figured as wrapped, constrictor-like, about a good sized tree. he 
figure itself is poor, and gives the impression of a serpent ten or 
twelve fect long ; but more noticeable i is. the fact that the text and 
illustration do not agree. Whichi is the more correct? On this 
subject, we have but to say, t at we have seen the Crotalus horri- 
dus crawl up the body of an oak that had grown out from a hillside, 
in an oblique position. The snake kept his entire length upon the 
upper side of the trunk of the tree, and finally coiled himself up 
at the point of departure of the main branches. Here he was par- 
tially concealed and had sufficient ‘‘room to spare,” to dart half 
his length and seize any bird or squirrel that approached. To this 
extent, we know that rattlesnakes do climb trees, but not in the 
manner given in the illustration referred to; and we should judge 
that Mr. Jones’ assertion that they “do not climb” was also in- 
Correct. — Cuas. C. Apsott, M. D. 
Destruction or DraGoy-FLies BY Brrps.— Mr. Gould, in a com- 
munication to the Entomological Society of London, says, “I be- 
AMER. NATURALIST, VOL. VIL 2 
