Trogon mesurus
The Ecuadorian Trogon (*Trogon mesurus*) is a striking member of the Trogonidae family, endemic to the Pacific lowlands of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. This medium-sized bird typically measures 23-25 cm (9-10 in) in length and weighs around 48-60 grams (1.7-2.1 oz). Males are resplendent with an iridescent green head, nape, and upperparts, contrasting sharply with a prominent white breast band and a vibrant scarlet-red belly. A distinctive pale or blue orbital ring encircles th...
Inhabits lowland and foothill humid to dry evergreen and deciduous forests, as well as transitional zones and secondary growth, typically at elevations up to 1800 meters (5,900 ft).
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of large insects and their larvae, supplemented significantly with small fruits and berries.
The Ecuadorian Trogon is largely an unobtrusive, sedentary bird, often observed perching upright and motionless on shaded branches for extended periods, frequently on the underside of a branch to survey its surroundings. Its foraging strategy is typical of trogons: a 'sally-glean' or 'perch-and-p...
The Ecuadorian Trogon is restricted to the Pacific lowlands and foothills of southwestern Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Its distribution extends from Esmeraldas Province in Ecuador southwards through Manabí, Guayas, El Oro, and Loja provinces, and into Tumbes and Piura regions of northwestern Pe...
Least Concern
- The name "trogon" comes from the Greek word "trogon," meaning "gnawing," referring to their habit of gnawing holes in tree trunks for nests. - Despite their vibrant colors, Ecuadorian Trogons are notoriously difficult to spot in the dense forest canopy due to their habit of sitting motionless f...