Also, in rare instances, a moth is unable to escape at all and is
lost if it is not assisted; but this is precarious business and
should not be attempted unless you are positive the moth will die
if you do not interfere. The struggle it takes to emerge is a part
of the life process of the moth and quickens its circulation and
develops its strength for the affairs of life afterward. If the
feet have a steady pull to drag forth the body, they will be
strong enough to bear its weight while the wings dry and develop.
All lepidopterists mention the wet condition of the moths when they
emerge. Some explain that an acid is ejected to soften the pupa
case so that the moth can cut its way out; others go a step
farther and state that the acid is from the mouth. I am extremely
curious about this. I want to know just what this acid is and
where it comes from. I know of no part of the thorax provided with
a receptacle for the amount of liquid used to flood a case, dampen
a moth, and leave several drops in the shell.
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