Several methods of moth collecting are in vogue, but space will only permit
of a few of those most frequently practised being here referred to, and
those suitable for day work will first be considered. Although small woods
should not be neglected, large tracts of woodland afford the moth hunter
the best chance of success in searching for those species that usually sit
during the daytime on the trunks of trees. Many of the moths that rest in
this way so admirably blend with their surroundings that they may easily be
overlooked; others by their resemblance to feathers, birds' excrement,
etc., are also apt to escape detection. Tree trunks, too, abound in
moth-like scars, blotches, and knobs, so that the beginner will frequently
fail to readily distinguish a moth from such objects, or from the others
mentioned. A little practice will soon enable him to tell {9} which is
which without having to very closely investigate, or perhaps even touch the
suspected object.
[Illustration: FIG. 8.