ORGANIC ADAPTATION 



327 



sticks, and the caterpillars ('inch- worms') of Geometric! Moths. 

 (Figs. 211, 212.) 



Although the general tendency in nature is for sympathetic col- 

 oration — indeed, it is frequently possible to infer from the color 

 of an animal its habitat — there are numerous cases in which 

 the colors and color schemes seem to be in striking contrast with 

 the animal's usual background. Sometimes, however, the con- 

 trast which is so striking with the bird in the hand, proves to be 



Fig. 211. — Leaf Butterfly, Kallima. 



obliterative with the bird in the bush — a conspicuous color pat- 

 tern, expressing gradations of light and shadow, and counter 

 shading, fuses with a background of light and shadow afforded 

 by foliage. 



But examples of color patterns which by the most liberal stretch 

 of the imagination cannot be interpreted as harmonious with the 

 animal's usual surroundings are not far to seek. Brilliant yellows 

 and reds render, for instance, many Wasps, Bees, Butterflies, and 

 various species of Snakes actually conspicuous. And it is suggestive 

 that very many of these forms are provided with special means of 



