GROUND PARRAKEBT. — Pezophorus formosus. 
Although not endowed with the glowing hues of the preceding species, tho 
Ground Parrakeet is a remarkably pretty and interesting bird. This species 
derives its name from its ground-loving habits. Mr. Gould says that it never 
perches on trees ; but the author of “ Bush Wanderings in Australia ” remarks 
that he has seen it perching upon the tea-tree scrub. Prom its peculiarly 
pheasant-like shape and habits, it is sometimes called the pheasant by the 
colonists. It is a very common bird, and is found spread over many parts of 
Australia. Like that bird, it seldom takes to wing, but runs with great swiftness, 
winding its way rapidly among the rank grass and stems, and moving its limbs 
with such swiftness that they are almost as invisible as the spokes of a wheel in 
rapid motion. 
When flushed, it only flies for a hundred yards or so, and then, if followed up, 
crouches closely to the ground, in hopes of being passed over. It makes its nest 
in some’ hollow tree. 
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