COLOR AND SEX. 47 



male an attractive sight, infliienciug lier clioice of a 

 mate. 



There is thus a practical agreement in the views of 

 these naturalists on the origin of those sexual characters 

 which may be classed as weapons, and this opinion is, I 

 believe, generally accepted. But the question of female 

 preference, and its influence on the development of bright 

 colors and accessory plumes, still lacks confirmation. 

 Here is an opportunity for every one who can watch wild 

 birds mating. 



