LYCiENIDiE. 
209 
of the larvae are so different from those of other butterflies, that it is 
a group of unusual interest to the collector. Then, too, the life-his¬ 
tories of several of the species are still unknown, or only known in a 
very imperfect manner. On account of their small size, the extreme 
wariness, and also the rarity of some of the species, careful observa¬ 
tion and patience are requisite to their capture and study, but the 
hours never seem long or the time ill-spent to him who is keenly 
interested in the pursuit and study of these minute but fascinating 
creatures. 
The genus Libythoea is distinguished by having short angular 
wings and very long pointed palpi, extending out beyond the head 
in such a manner that the butterflies belonging to this genus have 
earned the common names of “ Long beaks ” and “ Snout butterflies.” 
The males have but four well-developed legs (thus showing their 
close relationship to the Satyridce and the NympJialidce ), while the 
females have six. 
The insects are of different shades of brown, with yellowish and 
whitish markings. We have but three species in the United States, 
while but one of these, Libythoea bachmanni , inhabits the eastern half 
of the country. 
This butterfly varies a good deal in coloring, some specimens 
being much lighter and more reddish than others. The markings, 
also, of the under side are distinct and clear cut in. some, and very 
vague in other specimens. 
I have never observed this butterfly in New England, but in the 
west and south it is not rare, and Packard, states that it is found in 
Central America and the West Indies. I have taken it early in 
August in some numbers, at Batesville, Arkansas. Here, along the 
pebbly shore of the White Itiver, a good many specimens could be 
seen, standing with their wings erect, and sipping the moisture from 
wet spots in the bed. They were excessively shy and difficult to 
capture, and when alarmed flew very rapidly, but soon alighted. 
They did not mingle with the other butterflies, which in places were 
crowded together in dozens, but always alighted on the water-worn 
stones well out toward the river. 
The larva is dark green, without spines, but having many light 
yellow points, giving it a rough appearance. According to French, 
it feeds on the nettle tree QCeltis occidentalism , only one egg being 
placed by the female to a branch. The chrysalis is bluish green and 
slightly angular. 
