DIPHYLLODES CHRYSOPTERA , Gould.
Golden-winged Bird of Paradise.
Diphyllodes chrysoptera, Gould, MS., undi
----------------- speciosa, var. chrysoptera, Elliot, Monogr. Parad. pi. 13.
I have for a considerable time possessed specimens o f the present bird, which I lent to Mr. Elliot for
figuring in his monograph o f the family. He does not, however, consider it more than a “ variety ” o f 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 o f 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 o f them merely to exhibit a form of
variation to which 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 o f D . speciosa. 1 possess two individuals o f D. chrysoptera, both males, and agreeing with each
other; and considering that only during the past year a new and beautiful species o f this very genus has
been discovered in the well-known island o f Waigiou, I see nothing extraordinary in another island being
the habitat o f 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.