The Life of the Caterpillar

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About this book

An account of the pine processionary's eggs and hatching argues that studying insect habits requires long and close observation where their instincts have natural play. The discussion says a transplanted insect could not be expected to provide more than fragmentary evidence, especially in the biological details considered the principal charm of entomology. Young caterpillars are described as both processionaries and spinners less than an hour after hatching, with age developing those abilities without adding new ones.

The silken globe is described as a provisional shelter, light and economical in material, rather than the establishment intended for winter. The young caterpillars feed on leaves inside the silken tent, which therefore supplies both their shelter and their food. The occupants of the nest walk across the silk in different directions, each fastening to the surface a thread that hangs from its lip.

About the author

Jean-Henri Fabre

Jean-Henri Fabre (1823-1915) was a French naturalist and teacher celebrated for his patient, first-hand studies of insects. His multi-volume 'Souvenirs entomologiques' won him wide admiration, and he wrote many clear, engaging science books to bring the natural world to ordinary readers and children.