Birds
Black-tailed Trogon
Trogon melanurus
A bright yellow bill flashes against glossy green plumage as a black-tailed trogon perches upright in the rainforest canopy, one of the larger and more boldly coloured members of its family.
Overview
The black-tailed trogon, Trogon melanurus, is a Least Concern bird found across lowland rainforest spanning Central America and much of the Amazon basin. Its glossy green head and back, bright yellow bill, and deep red belly make it one of the more visually striking trogon species found anywhere in the Neotropics.
Size among its relatives
Among the many trogon species sharing Neotropical forest, the black-tailed trogon stands out partly through sheer size, ranking among the larger members of a family otherwise known mostly for brilliant colour rather than bulk.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread across suitable lowland rainforest habitat throughout its range in Central America and the Amazon basin.
Black-tailed Trogon: common questions
How can you identify a black-tailed trogon?
Look for a conspicuous bright yellow bill against a glossy green head and back, paired with a rich red belly, one of the bolder colour combinations among trogon species.
What does the black-tailed trogon eat?
It is an omnivore, eating insects and fruit, typically caught or plucked during brief sallying flights before returning to the same perch.
Where is the black-tailed trogon found?
It ranges across lowland rainforest spanning Central America and much of the Amazon basin.
Is the black-tailed trogon a large trogon species?
Yes, it is among the larger members of the trogon family found in Neotropical lowland forest.