The PIGMY, or PIPING GUAN (_Pipile leucolophos_), represents a group
distinguishable from the above birds by their low tarsi, the slender,
sickle-shaped form of the three first wing-quills, the slender, erect,
and pointed crest, about three inches long, that adorns their head, and
the black, bristle-like growth that covers the cheeks and overspreads
the throat in small tufts. The upper portion of the body is principally
slate-black, with white outer wing tipped with spots of the same dark
shade; the lower part of the back, under breast, belly, and vent are
reddish brown; some parts of the throat and breast have a chequered
appearance, owing to the white edges of the feathers. The crest is
composed of pure white feathers with black shafts; the quills and tail are
black, enlivened by a steel-blue sheen; the eye is a deep cherry-colour;
the bare face light blue; the throat light red; the beak horn-black,
with bright blue base; and the foot red. The female is not so large as
her mate, and has a shorter crest, less decided tints, and broader white
edges to her feathers. The plumage of the young is dusky brownish black,
except on the reddish brown belly and rump; their crest is but slightly
developed. This bird is twenty-nine inches long and thirty-nine broad;
the wing measures nearly eleven, and tail ten inches and three-quarters.
Schomburghk mentions that he met with the Piping Guan in all parts of
British Guiana, and saw it in great numbers in the forests near the coast.
It is less bold than its congeners, and unlike them, according to the
Prince von Wied, builds its nest amongst the branches of the forest trees
in which it lives in pairs. Its flesh is excellent, and it is readily
tamed. The voice of this species is low and piping.