\Pit"ta\ (p[i^]t"t[.a]), n. (Zo["o]l.)
Any one of a large group of bright-colored clamatorial birds
belonging to {Pitta}, and allied genera of the family
{Pittid[ae]}. Most of the species are varied with three or
more colors, such as blue, green, crimson, yellow, purple,
and black. They are called also {ground thrushes}, and {Old
World ant thrushes}; but they are not related to the true
thrushes.
Note: The pittas are most abundant in the East Indies, but
      some inhabit Southern Asia, Africa, and Australia. They
      live mostly upon the ground, and feed upon insects of
      various kinds.