High in the canopy of Costa Rica’s mountain rainforests, a dazzling splash of color awaits those with keen eyes. The Gartered Trogon, a resident gracing our Central Valley retreats, is a visual feast for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
This blog post is dedicated to this little marvel, a dazzling ambassador of the rich avian diversity Costa Rica boasts. So, grab your binoculars and settle in as we delve into the world of the Gartered Trogon!
A Bird of Two Plumages
The Gartered Trogon exhibits a fascinating sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females look quite different. The male is a breathtaking spectacle. His head and upper breast shimmer with an iridescent blue, like a jewel catching the sunlight. This mesmerizing blue transitions into a metallic green back, creating a stunning color contrast. A narrow white band separates his vibrant upper parts from a bright yellow belly, earning him the apt name “Gartered.”
The female Gartered Trogon, though lacking the male’s flamboyant hues, is no less beautiful. She is cloaked in a dusky gray plumage, with subtle white barring on the underside of her tail. Both sexes share a black bill, a distinctive feature of the trogon family.
A Life Amongst the Leaves
The Gartered Trogon prefers the semi-open landscapes bordering Costa Rica’s verdant rainforests. Forest edges, clearings, and shaded plantations offer this little bird the perfect habitat. Here, they perch on mid to upper levels of the trees, keeping a watchful eye on the world below.
Their diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and small fruits. Keen eyesight allows them to spot their prey from afar, and their short, broad bills are perfectly adapted for snatching them mid-air.
A Secretive Nester
The Gartered Trogon is quite secretive when it comes to nesting. They prefer to excavate cavities in large arboreal wasp nests, taking advantage of the abandoned homes of these stinging insects. Once the cavity is ready, the female lays clutches of 2-3 eggs, which are incubated by both parents.
Spotting a Gartered Trogon at our Retreat
The Gartered Trogon is a resident bird in the Central Valley region, making it a potential sighting for guests at our Costa Rican retreat. While they can be shy, keeping an eye out for their vibrant colors flashing amongst the leaves, or listening for their characteristic soft, whistled calls, might just reward you with an unforgettable encounter.
Our nature guides are experts at spotting these hidden gems and will be happy to share their knowledge and help you find this dazzling denizen of the Costa Rican rainforests.
Beyond the Blog
This blog post is just a glimpse into the fascinating world of the Gartered Trogon. As you explore the verdant landscapes of our retreat, keep your eyes peeled for this little wonder. A flash of blue, a burst of yellow – the Gartered Trogon might just be the next colorful memory you take home from your Costa Rican adventure!
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)