swamp-hen

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

n.


an Australasian bird, Porphyrio melanonotus, Temm. (often incorrectlyshortened to Melanotus). Called sometimes the Porphyrio (q.v.); Maori name, Pukeko. Calledalso the Swamp-Turkey, the Purple Coot, and byNew Zealand colonists, Sultana-bird, Pukaki,or Bokaka, the last two being corruptions of the Maoriname. For a West-Australian variety of the Porphyrio,see quotation (1848).

1845. E. J. Wakefield, `Adventures in New Zealand,' c. i.p. 228:

«The pukeko is of a dark-blue colour, and about as large as apheasant. The legs, the bill, and a horny continuation of itover the front of the head, are of a bright crimson colour.Its long legs adapt it for its swampy life; its flight is slowand heavy, resembling that of a bittern.»

1848. J. Gould, `Birds of Australia,' vol. vi. pl. 70:

« Porphyrio Bellus, Gould, Azure breasted Porphyrio; Swamp-Hen, Colonists of Western Australia.»

1888. W. L. Buller, `Birds of New Zealand,' vol. ii. p. 79:

[A full description.]

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

← swamp-hawk   ×   swamp-mahogany →

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