Field Notes

Vespers.

Plumage:
Males appear to molt their 6-day plumage at around 7:49 P.M. Some bathe hastily, and then don new plumage at extraordinary speed. This plumage varies considerably between individuals, but a brightly colored piece of cloth is invariably observed dangling from the neck region. Rates of plumage shedding, bathing, and subsequent atireation vary considerably between individuals. Most individuals appear to fuss with the vertical piece of plumage aforementioned and with hair in front of a piece of glass before exiting the premises of Talge Hall. The exact reasons for this ritual shedding and re-accoutretization process are as of yet undetermined, but some research suggests that the males are competing for female selection. Two-piece plumage sets were noted for ubiquity, as were bright colors, especially (but not limited to) pink.

Females go through a similar molting and regrowth process, although it appears to take some of them slightly longer. Friday-night accoutrements are slightly harder to typify for females. I observe that females tend to wear less than males, and hypothesize that they must have a higher cold tolerance. Of special note in the female population was the ubiquitous use of footwear with long and pointed spikes. I hypothesize that the females may use these to jab predators in the case of attack, as I can see no other functional use.

Pheremones:
The Natriantic Olafont System Enceterron (N.O.S.E.) indicated extremely high levels of Pheremones in the vespers assembly. Females were especially prone to extreme levels of pheremones, but my N.O.S.E. indicator showed that some males were also exuding pathological levels of odorant. I presume that the students use this as a signal that they are ready to select a mate: and predict a positive correlation between N.O.S.E. indications and the mate selection instinct.

The Promenade:
Males and females generally seem to walk in ordered pairs on their way to and from the vespers assembly. This walk assumes an almost ritualistically slow pace. Individuals who have paired will sometimes hold hands, and murmer in low tones. If the weather is temperate, these pairs often pause at the entrance to either dormitory. I hypothesize that they may be making calculations as to the proximity of the lunar constellation, as their gaze is frequently directed in that way.

The Huddle:
Males and Females sit quite close together. I hypothesize that the students have arranged a Male-Female Male-Female seating conformation in order to save space in the sanctuary. An alternative hypothesis which bears consideration is that the males are cold. (See plumage thermogenesis observation).

Final Observations:
Much complexity of behavior is observed in the Student species. Some males and females are strongly independent. While I have made some useful generalizations, there are many things which cannot be accounted for: the twinkle in an eye, a blush --- even the lifting of an eyebrow.

Students sp. is at some times coquettish, spirited, energetic, vain, arrogant, foolish, idealistic, fun-loving ... and at all times, just a little silly.