42 ANIMAL ECOLOGY 



tionary theory did not originate in the laboratory, but 

 while in the field in the midst of their studies, while 

 working reflectively upon their observations and 

 collections, as Brooks indicates in the quotation 

 at the beginning of this chapter. The classic case 

 of Bates discovering mimicry in his London study 

 instead of in the forests of Brazil is to some minds 

 not an argument for laboratory study, but one for 

 field study. There are but few subjects which have 

 suffered more from the preponderating influence of 

 the laboratory. 



To be sure, it may require more time to study in 

 the field than if one collects specimens only, but it is 

 economical in the long run. There are, of course, 

 certain phases of more indirect observation which 

 can be done best in the study or laboratory, but at 

 present, field study, as contrasted with collecting, 

 is a phase of effort urgently needing emphasis. 



The processes of observation and field study and 

 note taking are so intimately related that taking 

 notes becomes one of the essential parts of careful 

 observation. This is also one of the most difficult 

 habits to acquire. The beginner is inclined to write 

 them up, especially field notes, in the evening after 

 his return from the field. Such notes are generally 

 brief, lack details, and are usually of little value. 

 Therefore the safest course to pursue is to describe 

 fully whatever seems of value, then to go over these 

 facts again and by further observations increase the 

 number of items noted several times. These obser- 

 vations should be recorded as soon as made, for 



