Returning now to the case of _P. polytes_, there is not the least doubt
that to the ordinary man accustomed to use his eyes the A form of female is
easily distinguishable from _P. aristolochiae_, as also is the H form from
_P. hector_. The two models have a feature in common in which they both
differ from their respective mimics. In both of them the body and head are
largely of a brilliant scarlet, whereas neither of the mimics has a touch
of red on the body. In the living insect when the body is swelled by its
natural juices the effect is very striking[44]. It gives at once a
"dangerous" look {82} to the insect when settled, even at a distance of
several yards, and this although one may be perfectly familiar with its
harmless nature. The mimics on the other hand with their sombre-coloured
bodies never look otherwise than the inoffensive creatures that they are.
The "dangerous" look due to the brilliant scarlet of the body and head of
_hector_ and _aristolochiae_ is reinforced by the quality of the red on the
markings of the wings. In both models it is a strong clamorous red
suggestive of a powerful aniline dye, whereas such red as occurs in the
mimics is a softer and totally distinct colour. The difference in quality
is even more marked on the under than on the upper surface (Pl. V, figs. 3
_a_--6 _a_), and the net result is that when settled, with wings either
expanded or closed, there is no possibility of an ordinarily observant man
mistaking mimic for model in either case, even at a distance of several
yards.
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