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 wfith 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 
