644 
THE STUD V Cf INSECTS. 
cases the Aphids or scale-insects are huddled together on a 
branch, from which they are deriving their nourishment, and 
are completely covered by the “ cow-shed ” built by the ants. 
Superfamily SPHECINA (Sphe-ci'na). 
The Fossores (Fos-so'res) or Digger-wasps . 
There are several closely allied families of the Hymenop- 
tera that are usually classed together as the Fossores or 
Digger-wasps. These names refer to the fact that most 
of these insects make nests for their young by digging 
burrows in the ground or in wood. Many true wasps and 
bees have similar habits, but these insects differ in appear¬ 
ance from the Fossores in the following easily seen charac¬ 
teristics : The true wasps when at rest have their wings 
folded like fans, while the digger-wasps have their wings 
lying flat above the body. The bees have the basal segment 
of the tarsi of the hind legs flattened for carrying pollen, 
while the digger-wasps have legs fitted only for digging and 
walking. 
The Fossores are all solitary in their habits, that is, each 
female makes provision for her young. The adults are very 
fond of the warm sunshine, and may be seen flitting about 
flowers in the tropical heat of the noontide. As in most 
Hymenoptera, the male dies early, leaving the entire work 
of the nest-building and family cares to the female; however, 
she seems entirely equal to her responsibilities. She burrows 
in the ground or in wood, or utilizes the forsaken burrows 
of other species, or builds in the ready-made cavities of 
reeds or straws, or constructs a tube out of mud. The nest 
thus made is provisioned with spiders or with insects, which 
are not killed, but stung until paralyzed. The prey thus 
treated remains alive a long time, but is helpless. The egg 
is laid with this provision, and then the opening of the tube 
sealed up securely. When the larva hatches it finds nicely 
preserved food right at hand sufficient to nourish it during 
its growth. 
