Ann Jerde, age 13, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for her question:

Why are male birds prettier and better singers?

As a general rule, the male bird wears brighter colors than the female and almost always he is a better singer. This seems hardly fair. But Mother Nature has her reasons. Almost all birds are excellent parents and Nature gives them every possible advantage to bring up their chicks successfully, Plumage and singing are related to mating and child care.

In the bird world, the female usually chooses her mate. Chances are, she picks the most handsome fellow    and it so happens that his bright feathers may be a sign of good health. She wears drab colors that blend with the scenery when she sits on the eggs. His lovely voice is not meant for singing love songs. He sings his special notes to warn other birds of his species away from his nest and the family feeding grounds. The bird world does not favor male chauvinists    far from it. The colorful vocalists are in good health and able to defend the family nest.