Fig. 192.—The Convolvulus Sphinx (Sphinx convolvuli).
This is the mission of science, to dissipate the thousands of prejudices and dangerous superstitions which mislead ignorant people.
Fig. 193.—Death's-head Hawk-Moth (Acherontia atropos).
This moth has the front wings of a blackish brown colour, having lighter irregular bands varied with brown and grey, above and below. On the middle of the front wing there is a well-defined white dot. The hind wings have two black bands, the upper narrower than the lower one; the rest of the wing is a fine yellow. The abdomen has likewise from five to six yellow and as many black bands; in the middle is a long blackish longitudinal band. This moth is not very rare, and may be found in autumn. Its flight is heavy, and, as we have said, the insect never flies till after sunset. If caught, or when teased, it utters a cry which is very audible.
The death's-head hawk-moth would be a very inoffensive being if it did not make its way into bee-hives, in order to steal the honey, of which it is excessively fond. It is to no purpose that the bees dart their stings at the intruder, they only blunt them against its thick skin, and soon, terrified at its presence, disperse on all sides.