Before sucking they are quite thin, but afterwards they become round and bloated with blood, and in this state are easily crushed.

One which I caught at Iquique (for they are found in Chile and Peru) was very empty.

When placed on a table, and though surrounded by people, if a finger was presented, the bold insect would immediately protrude its sucker, make a charge, and if allowed, draw blood.

No pain was caused by the wound.

It was curious to watch its body during the act of sucking, as in less than ten minutes it changed from being as flat as a wafer to a globular form.