Volume 6, Plate XXVII / Ornithology (Birds)

White-Spotted Ortygis

Ortygis Meiffrenii

Ortygis Meiffrenii is one of the curious diminutive birds of Africa, India, and New Holland, few as large as the common quail, with long uncovered legs and feet wanting the hallux, recalling the bustards. Inhabiting barren landes and the confines of deserts, they seldom take wing but run swiftly, are polygamous, and are much used in eastern quail fighting; this African species is delicately shaded yellowish white above, nearly pure white below, with white spots marking the breast.