design
as a believer in evolution, i have to believe these patterns evolved of themselves, over thousands of generations, and served a purpose that furthered the genetic prospects of the birds that sported them. i can’t decide whether that is a position that weakens the claims of evolution, or a position that strengthens the claims that art and beauty are fundamental.
argus pheasant feathers
Whatever your position, they are simply stunning!
I say art and beauty are fundamental! “The Evolution of Beauty” by Richard O. Plum. And maybe even female mate choice being a driver of the evolution of art and beauty.
I consider myself an atheist, but when I see pieces of nature as beautiful as these (and dahlias, and snowflakes, etc, etc.), I admit that I have doubts. Not about God, necessarily, but there must be SOME higher power that can create such perfection.