79 
Wales in the much greater length of the mandibles, and is altogether 
a much finer bird ; consequently I am induced to believe that it is 
distinct from its southern prototype, I would therefore provisionally 
name it,— 
424. Chalcophaps longirostris. 
I have not figured it, inasmuch as the colouring is similar, but more 
brilliant, and has the bands across the rump more distinct, than in 
C. chrysochlora. 
Genus Leucosarcia. 
Generic characters. 
Bill lengthened, almost cylindrical, fleshy for two-thirds of its 
length from the base ; nostrils lateral and covered by an oval swollen 
operculum ; wings very short and concave ; tail short ; tarsi length- 
ened and defended in front by large distinct scuta ; toes rather short, 
hind-toe situated high upon the tarsus. 
A genus proposed by me for the reception of the Wonga-Wonga 
Pigeon of the Australian Brushes, a bird having many peculiar 
habits, but which, being mainly terrestrial, lead it to frequent the 
ground in the midst of the dense forests, where it moves about in 
pairs, feeding upon seeds and berries. Its flesh being remarkably 
white and extremely delicate, it is one of the best birds for the table 
inhabiting Australia, or indeed any other country. 
The colour of the flesh suggested the generic term I have as- 
signed to it. 
425. Leucosarcia picata Vol. V. PL 63. 
Genus Phaps. 
The members of this genus, generally known by the name of 
Bronze-wings, not only form an excellent viand for the settlers, but 
one of the greatest boons bestowed upon the explorer, since they not 
only furnish him with a supply of nutritious food, but direct him by 
their straight and arrow-like evening flight to the situations where 
he may find water, that element without which man cannot exist. 
426. Phaps chalcoptera. 
Peristera chalcoptera Vol. V. PI. 64. 
427. Phaps elegans. 
Peristera elegans Vol. V. PI. 65. 
428. Phaps histrionica. 
Peristera histrionica, Gould Vol. V. PL 66. 
“ This beautiful pigeon,” says Captain Sturt, “ is an inhabitant of 
the interior. It lays its eggs in February, depositing them under 
any low bush in the middle of the open plains. In the end of March 
and the beginning of April they collect in large flocks and live on 
the seed of the rice-grass, which the natives also collect for food. 
During the short period this harvest lasts the flavour of this pigeon 
is most delicious, but at other times it is indifferent. It flies to 
water at sunset, but like the Bronze-wing only wets the bill. It is 
