POE-BIRD, in ornithology, is an inhabitant of some of the South Sea islands, where it is held in great esteem and veneration by the natives. It goes by the name of kōe in New Zealand; but it is better known by that of poe-bird. It is somewhat less than our blackbird. The
feathers are of a fine mazarine blue, except those of its neck, which are of a most beautiful silver grey, and two or three short white ones which are on the pinion-joint of the wing. Under its throat hang two little tufts of curled snow-white feathers, called its poies (the Otaheitan word for ear-rings); which occasioned the name of poe-bird being given to it. It is remarkable for the sweetness of its note, as well as the beauty of its plumage. Its flesh is also delicate food.