porphyrio

n.

the Sultana-bird, or Sultana.The bird exists elsewhere. In Australia it is generally calledthe Swamp-Hen (q.v.).

1875. A. Domett, `Ranolf,' p. 213:

«The crimson-billed porphyrio, that jerking struts

Among the cool thick rushes.»

1890. `Victorian Statutes-the Game Act' (Third Schedule):

[Close Season.] «. . . Land-rail, all other members of the

Rail family, Porphyrio, Coots, &c. From the First day of

August to the Twentieth day of December following.»