CHAPTER XXXI 

 COLOR AND PROTECTIVE RESEMBLANCES 



TECHNICAL NOTE. For an appreciation of the reality of pro- 

 tective resemblances observations must be made in the field. Ex- 

 amples are easily found. Locusts, katydids, green caterpillars, 

 lizards, crouching rabbits, and brooding birds are readily observed 

 instances of general protective resemblance. For examples of 

 variable resemblance examine specimens of a single locust species 

 taken from different localities ; the individuals of the various species 

 of the genus Irimerotropis show much variation to harmonize 

 with their surroundings. Collect a number of larvae (caterpillars) of 

 one of the swallow-tail butterflies (Papilla}, and when ready to 

 pupate put them separately into pasteboard boxes lined inside with 

 differently colored paper. The chrysalids will show in their colora- 

 tion the influence of the different colors of the lining paper, their 

 immediate environment. As examples of special protective resem- 

 blance observe inch- or span-worms (larvas of Geometrid moths). 

 The walking-stick is not uncommon ; many spiders that inhabit 

 flower-cups show striking protective color patterns ; and the 

 Graptas or comma-butterflies which resemble dead leaves may be 

 examined. 



To illustrate warning colors, find, if possible, the larvae (cater- 

 pillars) of the common milkweed or monarch butterfly (Anosia 

 plexippus], and offer them to birds, at the same time offering other 

 caterpillars, and note the results. For terrifying or threatening 

 appearance find specimens of the large green tobacco- or tomato- 

 worm (larva of the five-spotted sphinx-moth, Phlegethontius caro- 

 /ina), or other sphingid larvae. 



The butterflies illustrating the striking example of mimicry, de- 

 scribed on p. 432, can be found in most parts of the country. 

 Syrphid and other flies which mimic bees and wasps can readily 

 be found on flowers. 



Each student should search for himself for examples of pro- 

 tective resemblance. 



Use of color. The prevalence of color and the often- 

 times striking and intricate coloration patterns of animals 



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