Welcome back, nature enthusiasts, to another feathered friend gracing our Costa Rican mountain retreat! Today, we turn our gaze to a vibrant resident of the rainforest canopy, the Slaty-tailed Trogon (Trogon massena). With its stunning plumage and unique habits, this dazzling bird is a true spectacle to behold.
A Jewel in the Rainforest Crown
Imagine a bird with a chest gleaming like polished emerald, a belly ablaze in fiery red, and a crown shimmering with a hint of sapphire. That’s the Slaty-tailed Trogon in all its glory. The males, with their metallic green upperparts and contrasting black facial mask, are particularly eye-catching. Females, though lacking the flamboyant greens, are no less beautiful with their overall dark grey plumage and a hint of red peeking through.
A Life Spent Up High
Slaty-tailed Trogons are arboreal birds, meaning they spend most of their lives perched amidst the lush canopy of the rainforest. If you’re lucky enough to spot one, look for them perched upright on a branch, their small feet perfectly adapted for stationary perching. They’re not big on hopping or flitting about, preferring short bursts of flight to snatch insects, fruits, or even the occasional small lizard.
A Keen Eye for Collaboration
One fascinating aspect of Slaty-tailed Trogon behavior is their occasional partnership with White-faced Capuchin monkeys. These clever primates forage for insects in the trees, inadvertently flushing out hidden prey. The opportunistic Slaty-tailed Trogon swoops in to snatch the startled insects in mid-air, a testament to the interconnectedness of life in the rainforest.
Finding Your Feathered Friend
While Slaty-tailed Trogons have a wide range stretching from southern Mexico to Ecuador, they are particularly common in Costa Rica. Here at our mountain retreat, nestled amidst the rainforest canopy, you have a great chance of encountering these dazzling birds. Keep your ears peeled for their soft calls and your eyes trained on the upper levels of the trees. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this emerald wonder.
Beyond the Blog
For those eager to learn more about the Slaty-tailed Trogon, our on-site naturalists can provide a wealth of information. They can also help you identify these and other fascinating birds during guided hikes and nature walks through the rainforest. So, come experience the magic of the Costa Rican rainforest firsthand, and see if you can spot the flash of emerald amidst the verdant canopy!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)