Note h — BOOK VIII.

All that have Elytra, Scarabs (who have whole Elytra, or reaching to the Podex,) or the Ἡμικουλεόπτεροι, such as Earwigs, and Staphylini of all Sorts, do, by a very curious Mechanism, extend and withdraw their membranaceous Wings, (wherewith they chiefly fly;) and it is very pretty to see them prepare themselves for Flight, by thrusting out, and unfolding their Wings; and again withdraw those Joynts, and neatly fold in the Membranes, to be laid up safely in their Elytra or Cases. For which Service the Bones are well plac’d, and the Joynts ministring thereunto are accurately contriv’d, for the most compendious, and commodious folding up the Wings.