22 INTRODUCTION. 



rudder to direct its course, and it also assists greatly 

 in preserving a proper equilibrium, both in motion 

 and while at rest. ' The form of the tail differs widely 

 in different species ; perhaps there is no other part 

 of its plumage in which so great a diversity exists, 

 and often the male and female are so unlike in this 

 respect as scarcely to be recognized as being different 

 sexes of the same bird. 



The structure of a simple feather is in itself a won- 

 der, — its unique form, its soft and delicate texture, 

 its perfect adaptation to the use for which it was de- 

 signed, — the amazing difference which exists between 

 those of different birds, from the stout quill of the 

 Buzzard's wing to the shining spangle from the Hum- 

 ming Bird's throat, the plain but exquisite shadings 

 and markings of the one contrasted with the gaudy 

 and glittering hues of the other, display the infinite 

 wisdom and the matchless skill of Him who is 



"Wondrous alike in all he tries!" 



The male bird is mostly clothed in more brilliant 

 plumage than his mate, and the young of both sexes 

 generally assume the garb of the female until the 

 following spring. Thus it appears that color not 

 only serves the purpose of beauty, but also of pro- 

 tection, for while the gay adornment of the male 

 attracts the attention and makes him a more certain 

 mark for the sportsman, the female to whom is com- 

 mitted the care of the young is secured from danger 

 by her unobtrusive dress. 



The Partridge and Woodcock, which mostly live 



