Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #62

By Jim Gain

8/11/2023

  • Scientific Name: Trogon caligatus
  • Name in Spanish (Mexico): Coa Violácea Norteña
  • ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: GATR
  • Family: Trogonidae – Trogons
  • Order: Trogoniformes – Trogons
Gartered Trogon Image © Jim Gain

About this Species

The Gartered Trogon is a stunning bird species found in Belize, which is located in Central America. These birds are known for their striking plumage, which features a bright yellow belly, green back, and black and white striped tails. The males and females are quite similar in appearance, although the females tend to have a slightly duller coloration.

Gartered Trogon Image © Jim Gain

In terms of distribution, the Gartered Trogon can be found throughout much of Central America, including Belize. They are typically found in forested areas, particularly in lowland and foothill forests. These birds are also known to inhabit second-growth forests, as well as areas with dense vegetation.

Gartered Trogon Image © Jim Gain

As for their natural history, Gartered Trogons are known to be relatively sedentary birds. They are primarily insectivores, feeding on a variety of insects, including grasshoppers, beetles, and butterflies. These birds also consume fruits and seeds, particularly during the non-breeding season. In terms of breeding, Gartered Trogons typically form monogamous pairs, with the male building a nest cavity in a tree trunk or branch. The female then lays 2-3 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for approximately 16 days.

>> Next Post on Sunday, 8/13/2023 – Hooded Warbler

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2 responses to “Gartered Trogon”

  1. Alex Leonard Avatar

    We are so lucky to live in a world that has such beauty.

  2. Birder's Journey Avatar

    Agreed! Absolutely stunning!

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ABOUT ME

Through my lens and prose I hope to instill a greater sense of awe, compassion and inspiration as I discover new creatures, explore interesting habitats, and gain wisdom about the natural world that’s all around us. It is my hope that readers are motivated to learn more about our environment and its inhabitants, and become passionate advocates for conservation.

I earned my college degree in biology, a foundation that shaped not only how I see the world, but how I’ve spent my life sharing it with others. For more than 35 years, I worked in education as both a teacher and administrator, guiding students through the wonders of science and the joy of discovery. That same spirit of curiosity has carried me through decades of volunteer work in citizen science and conservation. This blog brings together my passions for birding, conservation, and storytelling.

~ Jim Gain