ˈparson-bird
[See parson 3.]
1. A New Zealand bird (Prosthemadera novæzelandiæ), so called from its dark plumage and white neck-feathers; also called poe-bird or tui.
| 1857 C. Hursthouse N. Zealand I. 118 (Morris), The most common, and certainly the most facetious, individual of the ornithology is the tui (parson-bird). 1866 M. A. Barker Stat. Life N. Zeal. 93 (ibid.), The tui, or parson-bird, most respectable and clerical-looking in its glossy black suit..and white wattles of very slender feathers. |
2. Applied to the Rook.
| 1902 Westm. Gaz. 7 Jan. 2/3 Entirely devoted to the glorification of our friend Mr. Rook, the parson-bird. Ibid. 14 Feb. 12/1 We have no doubt that the ‘parson birds’ will keep up the ancient tradition and celebrate their weddings to-day. |