Notes

Abstract

IT has been felt by many entomologists, for some time past, that several of our more interesting and local British insects are in danger of extermination from over-collecting. Accordingly, the Council of the Entomological Society of London appointed a representative Committee to consider the matter. The Committee found themselves unable to recommend any means of affording protection by enactment, as has been done for birds, or even by approaching landowners to induce them to check collecting on property where such species occur. In many cases such insects are found on poor and uncultivated lands belonging to small proprietors, to whom the presence of an army of collectors is a source of profit. It was suggested, however, that the opinion of entomologists might be stimulated, and an impulse given to their endeavours, by the formation of an association for the protection of such insects. Accordingly, such an association has been formed under the auspices of the Entomological Society, and the following memorandum has been numerously signed. “We the undersigned, being desirous of protecting from extermination those rare and local species of insects which are not injurious to agriculture nor to manufactures, do hereby agree, by our own example and by the exercise of our influence over others, to discourage the excessive collection and destruction of those species of insects which, from their peculiar habits, are in danger of extermination in the United Kingdom. We further agree to accept for the purposes of this Association. such list of species in need of protection as shall be drawn up, and, if necessary, from time to time amended by the Committee of the Entomological Society of London appointed to that end.” The Association is open to any one interested in the preservation of our indigenous insect-fauna. The Hon. Secretary is Mr. C. G. Barrett, 39 Linden Grove, Nunhead.