Volume 6, Plate XXVI / Ornithology (Birds)

Crowned Cryptonix

Cryptonix coronata

Cryptonix coronata, a singular bird allied to the partridges yet lacking a hind claw, has a compact robust form, short rounded wings, a large naked space round the eyes, and an ample crest of hairy plumes. About ten inches long, the male is deep olive green above, nearly black or steel blue below, the head purple reflected, the crest orange red banded with white, and the eyes and legs bright red, the female green and wanting the red crest.