parra

n. a popular use for the fullerscientific name Parra gallinacea. Called alsothe Jacana (q.v.), and the Lotus-bird (q.v.).

1893. `The Argus,' March 25, p. 4, col. 6:

«The egg of the comb-crested parra shines amongst itsneighbours so vividly that it at once catches the eye, andsuggests a polished agate rather than an egg. The bird itselfis something of a gem, too, when seen skipping with its longwater-walking claws over the floating leaves of pink and bluewater-lilies.»