The ROYAL AMAZON (_Bellatrix regina_), a beautiful species inhabiting
Columbia, closely resembles the bird last described, but with these
differences: the rump is a copper-colour and the lower part of the back
striped with white; the tail is brown, the quills purplish brown, and the
collar emerald green; each of its feathers spotted with red. The crest is
formed of long, narrow, bright red feathers, some of which have a deep
metallic green spot at the tip.
[Illustration: THE HORNED SUN-GEM (_Heliactinus cornutus_).]
* * * * *
The SUN-GEMS (_Heliactinus_) are distinguishable from the above group by
the superior length of the tail and crest; the wing is long and slender,
the tail much graduated, and formed of narrow, pointed feathers. The beak
is longer than the head, and increases slightly in thickness towards its
delicate tip. The feet are small, and the claws short and powerful.