Malabar Trogon
NameMalabar Trogon
Common NameMalabar Trogon
Scientific NameHarpactes fasciatus
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head with a bright blue orbital ring, a broad white band across the breast, and vibrant crimson-red underparts. The back is rufous-brown, and the wings are finely barred with black and white. The long tail has white outer rectrices. Females are duller, with a rufous head and breast, and yellowish underparts.
Vocalization / CallTheir call is typically a soft, mournful series of coos, often described as 'kyau-kyau-kyau' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo', repeated several times.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats and associated hill ranges of peninsular India and Sri Lanka, inhabiting tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests.
Identifying Featuresvibrant red underparts (male), black head with blue orbital ring (male), white breast band (male), finely barred wings, long tail with white outer feathers, upright posture on perches
Description
The Malabar Trogon is a strikingly colorful bird found in the dense undergrowth of tropical forests. It is known for its habit of perching motionless for long periods, making it challenging to spot despite its vibrant plumage. They typically feed by sallying out from a perch to catch insects or pluck fruit.
