RECORD: Darwin, C. R. n.d. Excellent case of a structure being derived by gradations adapted to different habits. CUL-DAR205.5.12. Edited by John van Wyhe (Darwin Online, http://darwin-online.org.uk/)

REVISION HISTORY: Transcribed by Christine Chua and edited by John van Wyhe 1.2023. RN1

NOTE: See record in the Darwin Online manuscript catalogue, enter its Identifier here. Reproduced with permission of the Syndics of Cambridge University Library and William Huxley Darwin. The volume CUL-DAR205.5 contains notes on the principle of divergence, transitional organs and instincts.

[12]

Excellent case of a structure being derived by gradations adapted to different habits.

The Plata Colaptes chilensis campestris ground woodpecker, has beak rather less strong than in typical genera: only the less central tail feathers stiff & these not much used; claws different structures from the climbing kinds.

Mem: tree frog & two parrots on plains

The Colaptes campestris, very close to chilensis but manner of flight, cry, scarlet tuft on head, corners of mouth all connect it with true woodpeckers

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Citation: John van Wyhe, ed. 2002-. The Complete Work of Charles Darwin Online. (http://darwin-online.org.uk/)

File last updated 3 March, 2023