English Entomologist Quotes

William Kirby (entomologist)

David Sharp (entomologist)

The sphinx atropos squeakes when hurt, nearly as loud as a mouse, which, when uttered in the most plaintive tone, naturally shocks the human heart, and makes it shudder at the thought of destroying inoffensive animals merely for the sake of curiosity. I cannot help reflecting on this tyranny, this wanton cruelty, exercised by thoughtless man, on many animals but especially in insects: 'tis certain, that every animal possessing life, has feeling; and, therefore, is as capable of suffering pain, as of enjoying pleasure; and, as Shakespeare humanely expresses The poor beetle crushed beneath the foot, feels the pangs of death as great as when a monarch falls. Gentle reader, pardon this digression, my feelings commanded my pen.

The corridors of power have a strong attraction for even the most devoted investigator, and these corridors seldom lead back to the laboratory.

Kenneth Mellanby

The only definition that can be given of Heterocera is the practical one that all Lepidoptera that are not butterflies are Heterocera.

David Sharp (entomologist)

In the minds of most men... an Entomologist is synonymous with everything futile and childish. [Involved in a] science which, in nine companies out of ten companies with which he may associate, promises to signalise him as an object of pity or contempt.

William Kirby (entomologist)