1596 THE STORY OF THE UNIVERSE 



It is necessary to distinguish carefully between 

 true mimicry and several similar though superficial 

 modes of resemblance which occur among organic 

 beings. Several orchids resemble flies or spiders, 

 but this is merely a case of accidental resemblance. 



Among animals of a higher order than insects 

 mimicry very seldom occurs. 



Among mammals, all of which belong to the verte- 

 brates, mimicry is seldom found, and it is supposed 

 that only one genuine case has been observed. 



Cladobates, an insect-eating genus found in the 

 Malayan region, includes many species closely re- 

 sembling squirrels both in size and color, as well in 

 regard to the bushiness and position of the tail. 



It is supposed by Mr. Wallace that Cladobates, 

 owing to its resemblance to the harmless fruit-eating 

 squirrel', may be enabled to approach insects and 

 birds upon which it lives. 



Cuckoos bear a considerable resemblance to 

 hawks ; the cuckoo tribe being weak and defenceless 

 will in this way be enabled to elude the voracious 

 hawks. 



There is a genus of dull-colored birds in Australia 

 and the Moluccas named Tropidorhynchus. These 

 birds are large, active, and strong, with powerful 

 claws and sharp beaks. They congregate in flocks, 

 and are remarkably aggressive, driving away crows 

 and even hawks. 



In these same countries a genus of the group 

 orioles lives, named Mimeta. These are much 

 weaker than their allies the golden orioles, and be- 

 sides are devoid of their brilliant colors, being 



