The present work is intended as a guide to those who desire to collect or study our native _Lepidoptera_, and also as a book of reference to the general reader. In the Introduction I have first given an outline of the Transformations and Structure of the _Lepidoptera_. Then a brief sketch of the Darwinian theories respecting the origin of species and their special application to various phenomena exhibited by moths and butterflies, as well as a short outline of the general principles which have been followed in framing modern classifications of the order. Next follow five chapters on the various groups dealt with. With a few exceptions this work only treats of what are, for the sake of convenience, termed the _Macro-Lepidoptera_. A similar work on the numerous and interesting species of _Micro-Lepidoptera_ found in New Zealand may at some future time be undertaken. In conclusion, I have to discharge the pleasurable duty of thanking the numerous entomologists who have so liberally assisted me in the production of this work. First, and especially, my thanks are due to Mr. Meyrick, without whose masterly papers and 'Handbook' but little could have been accomplished. Next, to Mr. R. W. Fereday, who very kindly allowed me to figure many species of which he alone possesses specimens--in itself an invaluable assistance. I have also to express my thanks to Messrs. E. F. Hawthorne, H. P. Hanify, R. I. Kingsley, A. Norris, A. Philpott, and others for the loan of specimens, and for much valuable information regarding the localities and habits of rare or local species. Lastly, I have to acknowledge the aid so willingly given by my lamented friend, the late Mr. A. S. Olliff, of Sydney. KARORI, WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND, 1897. CONTENTS. PAGE INTRODUCTION ix THE CARADRININA 1 THE NOTODONTINA 38 THE PAPILIONINA 101 THE PSYCHINA 122 THE MICROPTERYGINA (PART ONLY) 127 APPENDIX (DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF PLANTS) 137 GENERAL INDEX 141 SPECIAL INDEX 142 PLATES AND EXPLANATIONS 145 {ix}INTRODUCTION.