emu-wren

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

n.


a bird-name. See malurus.

1848. J. Gould, `Birds of Australia,' vol. iii. pl. 31:

« Stipituras Malachurus, Less. Emu Wren. The decomposedor loose structure of these [tail] feathers, much resemblingthose of the emu, has suggested the colonial name of Emu-Wrenfor this species, an appellation singularly appropriate,inasmuch as it at once indicates the kind of plumage with whichthe bird is clothed, and the Wren-like nature of its habits.»

1860. G. Bennett, `Gatherings of a Naturalist,' p. 213:

«The delicate little emeu wren.»

1865. Lady Barker (letter from `Melbourne), `Station Life inNew Zealand,' p. 8:

«Then there is the emu-wren, all sad-coloured, but quaint, withthe tail-feathers sticking up on end, and exactly like those ofan emu, on the very smallest scale, even to the peculiarity oftwo feathers growing out of the same little quill.»

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

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