Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Pitta \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.