The antennæ (Plate I. Figs. 1 _a_, 2 _a_, 3 _a_) are most important instruments, and are planted between or below the eyes and a little below the stemmata, one on each side; they consist of a number of tubular joints, each having a separate motion, and, being thus jointed throughout their whole length, they are capable of every variety of flexure, and their extremities are exquisitely sensitive. With the antennæ these insects recognise their queen, and appear to communicate to each other their joys and sorrows. For instance, if a colony be deprived of its queen, bees may be seen rushing about the hive, and, with a nervous twinge, crossing their antennæ or violently striking them together, and conveying the intelligence of their forlorn state. The sense of touch is here most acute. Huber performed an interesting experiment which definitely proved that it was by means of these organs that they communicated with each other. Dividing a hive by a grating which kept the two portions too widely apart for the antennæ to meet, he soon had the queenless half in a state of commotion and upset; but when he allowed these feelers the means of access, though nothing else could be passed through, he saw them by hundreds making their enquiries, and receiving answers, which resulted in the whole remaining tranquil. The same observer tried the experiment of depriving two queens of their antennæ and introducing both to the same hive, when the bees did not appear to know their own from the stranger; but the moment he added a third, still in possession of these organs, they fell upon her with murderous intent. Huber further points out that a moonlight night is the best time for observing the use of the antennæ as feelers. The bees, if it is warm, circumambulate their doors, to all appearance as vigilant sentinels, with these appendages stretched right before them; and woe to the moth that comes within reach--the instant it is felt its death follows.