INTRODUCTION. 23 



through a year, and some exist for longer periods. 

 They feed lightly, and never increase in size. The 

 chief object of all is to perpetuate their species, after 

 which the greater number quickly die. It is in this 

 state that they exercise those remarkable instincts for 

 the preservation of their race, which are exhibited in 

 their preparations for the shelter of their eggs, and 

 the nourishment of their larvae. The foregoing are 

 examples of insects in the imago, or perfect state. 



