INSTINCT OF INSECTS. 475 
position, the cells all exactly similar, or where varying — 
with the variations always alike;—this structure would 
perhaps in reality be not more astonishing than many of 
a much simpler conformation. But when we know that 
im nine instances out of ten the combs in a bee-hive are 
thus similar in their properties, and yet that in the tenth 
one shall be found of a form altogether peculiar; placed 
uta different position; with cells of a different shape— 
and all these variations evidently adapted to some new 
circumstance not present when the other nme were con- 
structed,— we are constrained to admit that nothing in 
the instinct of other animals can be adduced, exhibiting 
similar exquisiteness : just as we must confess an ordinary 
loom, however ingeniously contrived, far excelled by one 
capable of repairing its defects when out of order. 
The examples of this variation and accommodation to 
circumstances among insects are very numerous; and as 
presenting many interesting facts im their history not be- 
fore related, I shall not fear wearying you with a pretty 
copious detail of them, beginning with the more simple. 
It is the instinct of Geotrupes vernalis to roll up pel- 
lets of dung, in each of which it deposits one of its eggs; 
and in places where it meets with cow- or horse-dung 
only, it is constantly under the necessity of having re- 
course to this process. But in districts where sheep are 
kept, this beetle wisely saves its labour, and ingeniously 
avails itself of the pellet-shaped balls ready made to its 
hands which the excrement of these animals supplies?. 
A caterpillar described by Bonnet, which from being 
confined in a box was unable to obtain a supply of the 
2 Sturm, Deutschlands Fauna, i. 27. 
