Although sexual connection as a cause of conception is not recognized by the Tully River blacks so far as themselves are concerned, it is admitted as true for all animals—indeed, this belief confirms them in their belief of superiority over the brute creation.²

This familiarity with the facts of reproduction in animals and the fact that the old men conceal their knowledge of human reproduction seriously discredits the theory of native ignorance.

²Roth, W.E., n/an/an/an/a 5, 81.