That birds—perhaps most birds—have some artistic sense is beyond dispute
; and incidentally the fact has been affirmed, with some convincing, examples at a recent dis- cussion of the British Association in London. It cannot be a question of just instinct, or tropism, in the ordinary sense, for many species are remarkable more for their adaptability than specialized habit. The insect (with certain exceptions, especially among ants) does the same thing always, with incredible accuracy ; indeed, more accurately than would be possible by the agency 'of such a cumbrous instrument as reason. The bird, whose material brain is very big propor- tionately to ,its size, fits itself quickly and readily to circum- stance-. The building of the oyster catcher is one of the better examples. Adornment for its own sake is commoner than is generally thought ; indeed, is commoner (except among ground nesting birds) than protecti■r,e mimicry. That swallows are in this company is new to me ; and the example is of peculiar interest to the student of the mind of a bird.
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