STICKLEBACKS. 125 



approaches the object of his affections, most likely 

 tells her all about his house and its comforts, 

 hints delicately at his readiness and ability to 

 defend her children against every enemy, vows 

 unfailing fidelity, and, in lover-fashion, promises 

 as much in a few minutes as would take a life- 

 time to fulfil. Of course she listens to his suit : 

 personal beauty, indomitable courage, backed 

 by the substantial recommendations of a house 

 ready-built, and fitted for immediate occupation, 

 are gifts not to be lightly regarded. 



Throwing herself on her side, the captive lady 

 shows her appreciation, and by sundry queer 

 contortions declares herself his true and devoted 

 spouse. Then the twain return to the nest, into 

 which the female at once betakes herself, and 

 therein deposits her eggs, emerging when the 

 operation is completed by the opposite hole. 

 During the time she is in the nest (about six 

 minutes) the male swims round and round, butts 

 and rubs his nose against it, and altogether 

 appears to be in a state of defiant excitement. 

 On the female leaving he immediately enters, 

 deposits the milt on the eggs, taking his de- 

 parture through the backdoor. So far, his 

 conduct is strictly proper, but, I am afraid, 

 morality in stickleback society is of rather a 



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