Moths (Phalﾵnﾵ L.)

1647. Moths (Phalﾵnﾵ L.) constitute the third, and by far the most numerous, division of lepidopterous insects; and it is among these we find the greatest proportion of injurious and destructive species. Nearly all, in their larva or caterpillar state, are external feeders; that is, they feed upon leaves: on changing into the chrysalis state, they either conceal themselves within a silken cocoon, or burrow in the earth; but are never exposed like butterflies. The perfect insects seek their food during the night, generally beginning their flight in the dusk of the evening. The antennﾵ are thickest at the base, and gradually become more slender, until they terminate in a fine point: but some have their antennﾵ feathered. Many hundred species of moths inhabit Britain, and thousands are already known as natives of foreign countries.

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