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The Descent of Man

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species prehensile claws are developed on the<br />

fore-legs <strong>of</strong> the males during the breeding- season:<br />

and at this season in the male Triton palmipes<br />

the hind-feet are provided with a swimming-web,<br />

which is almost completely absorbed<br />

during the winter; so that their feet then<br />

resemble those <strong>of</strong> the female. (43. Bell, 'History<br />

<strong>of</strong> British Reptiles,' 2nd ed., 1849, pp. 156-159.)<br />

This structure no doubt aids the male in his<br />

eager search and pursuit <strong>of</strong> the female. Whilst<br />

courting her he rapidly vibrates the end <strong>of</strong> his<br />

tail. With our common newts (Triton punctatus<br />

and cristatus) a deep, much indented crest is<br />

developed along the back and tail <strong>of</strong> the male<br />

during the breeding- season, which disappears<br />

during the winter. Mr. St. George Mivart informs<br />

me that it is not furnished with muscles,<br />

and therefore cannot be used for locomotion.<br />

As during the season <strong>of</strong> courtship it becomes<br />

edged with bright colours, there can hardly be<br />

a doubt that it is a masculine ornament. In many<br />

species the body presents strongly contras-

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