198 
POPULAR HISTOEY OP BIEDS. 
ous pigeon prefers being on the ground^ Mr. Peale observed 
that^ on the island of Mangsi^ in the straits of Balabak^ it 
was decidedly arboreal^ and was never observed on the 
ground. It frequented lofty fig and other fruit-trees^ feed- 
ing with nutmeg pigeons [Carjpopliaga cBuea)^ but generally 
at a less elevation. The call is a deep-toned coo^ somew^hat 
resembling the cry of some owls"^. Mr. Macgillivray found 
this species on the Duchateau Islands^ living chiefly on the 
ground, where it ran with great swiftness, only flying up to 
a tree when disturbed. Its nest was of the rude platform 
construction usually found among the Pigeon familyf. 
The Nutmeg Pigeons [Carpophaga) are a beautifully co- 
loured group, feeding on nutmegs and other fruits. The 
naturalist of the Rattlesnake speaks of one of the species 
(C oceanica) as being common in the Louisiade Archipelago. 
During the heat of the day its favourite place of resort is 
among nutmeg and other shady trees, amongst which it is 
with difficulty distinguished. He speaks of its flavour as 
food being very excellent, and most of the specimens his 
party killed were very fat; some of them ^^even burst open 
in falling to the ground after having been shot.^^ 
* Zoology of United States Exploring Expedition, vol. viii. p. 207. 
t Voyage of H.M.S. Rattlesnake. 
