DIPHYLLODES CHRYSOPTERA, Gould. 
Golden-wing’ed Bird of Paradise, 
Diphjllodes chrysoptera, Gould, MS., mdi 
speciosa, Tar. chrysoptera, Elliot, Monogr. Parad. pi. 13. 
I HAVE for a considerable time possessed specimens of the present bird, wbich I lent to Mr. Elliot for 
figuring in his monograph of the family. He does not, however, consider it more than a “ variety ” of the 
ordinary species, as will be seen from the account which I extract from his work : — 
“ The only difference perceptible between these specimens and those of the well-known species with which 
I have compared them is that the wings are of a golden colour. In size they are equal. I do not consider 
that there are sufficient grounds shown for naturalists to regard these birds as belonging to a species 
distinct from the D. speciosa ; and I have given a representation of them merely to exhibit a form of 
variation to wbich perhaps D, speciosa is subject in certain localities. The exact place from which they 
come is not known The bird may be described as the same as D. speciosa with yellow secondaries.’’ 
I have reproduced Mr. Elliot’s remarks because I wish my readers to know his exact opinion respecting 
the birds, especially as I am compelled to differ from him entirely in his belief that the present bird is nothing 
but a variety of D. speciosa. I possess two individuals of D, chrysoptera, both males, and agreeing Avith each 
other ; and considering that only during the past year a new and beautiful species of this very genus has 
been discovered in the well-known island of Waigiou, T see nothing extraordinary in another island being 
the habitat of this, to me, very well-characterized bird. I consider it perfectly distinct from D. speciosa ; 
and I am certain that before long its proper habitat will be brought to light. 
The birds are represented of the natural size. 
