BIRDS OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDS. 
141 
GEOTRYGON MARTINICA. ( Gtn .) 
Key West Dove. 
Whiter Plumage , Male. — Above, chestnut-rufous ; crown and 
neck with metallic reflections of green and purple ; back showing 
brilliant purple, reflections becoming less distinct on the rump ; a 
band of white from the base of the lower mandible under the eye 
to the side of the neck, bordered below by a streak of dull purple ; 
under parts showing the breast pale purple, becoming dull white on 
the throat and abdomen ; primaries, bright rufous, becoming darker 
at the tips ; tail, rufous ; legs, red. 
Length 10.75, wing 6, tail 4.30, tarsus 1, bill .90. 
This beautiful Pigeon is an abundant resident. It is to be met 
with in small flocks, and generally inhabits the heavily wooded parts 
of the islands. They remain concealed during the heat of the day, 
but early in the morning often come out into the open ground 
to feed. On several occasions I saw birds of this species exhibited 
for sale at the market in Nassau, and had the good fortune to 
procure several very fine specimens which were brought in by the 
negroes. The note is low and mournful, and is often heard during: 
the early hours of the morning. 
Fig. Aud. Bds. N. A., Vol. V.. pi. 282. 
