Those are interesting examples. I wonder how much genetic information is devoted to making those markings, both forming the patterns and creating the chemicals or iridescence for the colours. And how much genetic information is devoted to enabling a peacock to raise its tail in its display? Peacock plumage sure doesn't seem like a good example of "the competitive pressures that drive evolution", but zany exuberance as you say!
Those are interesting examples. I wonder how much genetic information is devoted to making those markings, both forming the patterns and creating the chemicals or iridescence for the colours. And how much genetic information is devoted to enabling a peacock to raise its tail in its display? Peacock plumage sure doesn't seem like a good example of "the competitive pressures that drive evolution", but zany exuberance as you say!