Pitta strepitans; Print; Pittas are a family; Pittidae; of passerine birds found in Asia; Australasia and Africa. There are thought to be 40 to 42 species of pittas; all similar in general appearance and habits. The pittas are Old World suboscines; and their closest relatives among other birds are the broadbills in the genera Smithornis and Calyptomena. Initially placed in a single genus; as of 2009 they have been split into three genera: Pitta; Erythropitta and Hydrornis. Pittas are medium-sized by passerine standards; at 15 to 25 cm (5.9-9.8 in) in length; and stocky; with strong; longish legs and long feet. They have very short tails and stout; slightly decurved bills. Many have brightly coloured plumage.; 1700-1880