For birders with a thirst for the extraordinary, the Elegant Trogon is a Costa Rican crown jewel. This dazzling bird, with its contrasting plumage and secretive nature, adds a touch of magic to the mountain forests of our retreat.
A Flash of Color in the Green Embrace
Imagine this: you’re nestled on your private balcony, enjoying a cup of freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee, the emerald embrace of the rainforest all around you. Suddenly, a burst of color pierces the green. A male Elegant Trogon, with its iridescent coppery-green upperparts and a fiery red underbelly, lands on a nearby branch. Its large, round head and short, stout bill give it a comical look, but the overall effect is undeniably stunning.
The Elegant Trogon’s Hidden Life
These medium-sized birds, slightly larger than a robin, prefer the seclusion of mountain forests, particularly those with oak and sycamore trees. While some Elegant Trogons stay year-round, most arrive in April, gracing us with their presence until November. Their stocky build and short legs might suggest clumsiness, but they are surprisingly agile fliers, capable of quick bursts of speed to snatch insects in mid-air.
A Song not Often Heard
The Elegant Trogon is a relatively quiet bird. Their most common vocalization is a low, croaking call, but if you’re lucky, you might hear a series of soft whistles or a drumming sound. Keep your ears peeled, for these subtle sounds can be the key to spotting this elusive beauty.
A Look into the Elegant Trogon’s Nest
The Elegant Trogon is a secondary cavity nester, meaning they rely on abandoned woodpecker holes for their homes. They often nest in riparian vegetation, close to streams and sometimes even near human settlements. Inside the cavity, the female lays clutches of 2-4 eggs, which hatch after a roughly 18-day incubation period.
Spotting Your Own Elegant Trogon
While patience is key, there are ways to increase your chances of encountering an Elegant Trogon. Early mornings and late afternoons are prime birding hours, as these are the times when the Elegant Trogon is most active, searching for food. Keep an eye out for them perched upright on a branch, their long, square-tipped tails dangling below. They tend to stay motionless for extended periods, making them easier to spot.
A Glimpse into a Hidden World
The Elegant Trogon is more than just a beautiful bird; it’s a symbol of the hidden wonders that lurk within the Costa Rican mountains. By keeping your eyes peeled and your ears tuned, you might just be lucky enough to witness a flash of this avian gem, adding a touch of magic to your Costa Rican retreat experience.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
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