It really requires little imagination to believe that the bird is ashamed of itself, and is aware of its most ridiculous figure.

On first seeing it, one is tempted to exclaim, "A vilely stuffed specimen has escaped from some museum, and has come to life again!" It cannot be made to take flight without the greatest trouble, nor does it run, but only hops.

The various loud cries which it utters when concealed amongst the bushes are as strange as its appearance.

It is said to build its nest in a deep hole beneath the ground.

I dissected several specimens: the gizzard, which was very muscular, contained beetles, vegetable fibres, and pebbles.