COLOR AND SEX. 47 
male an attractive sight, influencing her choice 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 caa watch wild 
birds mating. 
