THE 



AMEEICAN NATURALIST 



Vol. XL January, 1906 Xo. 469 



FLYING-FISH FLIGHT, AND AN UNFIXED LAW OF 

 NATURE 



C. D. DURNFORD 



The controversy amongst naturalists as to whether flying-fish 

 do or do not flap their wings in flight has become so one-sided as 

 almost to represent extinction — as a controversy. 



It is desirable, if possible, to revive it a little, by carrying the 

 argument into new ground: first, because the one side which is 

 at present believed in would appear to be the wrong one; and, 

 secondly, because it seems to have escaped the notice of the other 

 that this is capable of proof 



The arguments, if they may be so called, hitherto in use are 

 simple assertion and denial, and may be summed up into :— 



"Flying-fish do fly, moving their wings with extreme rapidity. 

 I have carefully and frequently watched them and there can be 

 no doubt whatever about it." 



And the converse: — 



"Flying-fish do not flap their wings, but use them as aeroplanes, 

 like swallows when in skimming or sailing flight. I have carefully 

 and frequently watched them, and there can be no doubt whatever 



Somewhat similar remarks will be heard in any ordinary group 

 of ship's passengers watching the fish. Some will insist that they 

 see the wings flapping, and some will aver that they are quite still. 



