Narbonne Lycosa: Climbing-Instinct
spreading right up to the top, and place it above the cage. The little Lycosæ clamber to the very summit. Here, longer threads are produced from the rope-yard, and are now left to float, anon converted into bridges by the mere contact of the free end with the neighbouring supports. The rope-dancers embark upon them and form garlands which the least breath of air swings daintily. The thread is invisible when it does not come between the eyes and the sun; and the whole suggests rows of Gnats dancing an aerial ballet.
Then, suddenly, teased by the air-currents, the delicate mooring breaks and flies through space. Behold the emigrants off and away, clinging to their thread. If the wind be favourable, they can land at great distances. Their departure is thus continued for a week or two, in bands more or less numerous, according to the temperature and the brightness of the day. If the sky be overcast, none dreams of leaving. The travellers need the kisses of the sun, which give energy and vigour.
At last, the whole family has disappeared, carried afar by its flying-ropes. The mother remains alone. The loss of her offspring
173
