Trinidad Motmot
NameTrinidad Motmot
Common NameTrinidad Motmot
Scientific NameMomotus bahamensis
FamilyMomotidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)135
Plumage DetailsFeatures a green back, wings, and tail, with a rufous-chestnut belly and breast. The head has a bright blue crown, bordered by a black mask that extends behind the eye, and a black spot on the throat. The long tail has two central feathers with bare shafts ending in distinctive blue-tipped 'rackets'.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a characteristic low, resonant 'hoot-hoot' or 'mot-mot' call, often repeated, which gives the family its common name. They also produce a variety of guttural and clucking sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the islands of Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesRacket-tipped tail, Black mask across the eye, Blue crown, Rufous-chestnut underparts, Green body plumage
Description
The Trinidad Motmot is a vibrantly colored bird known for its distinctive racket-tipped tail. It typically perches quietly in the understory of forests, often moving its tail from side to side like a pendulum. These birds are generally shy but can be observed foraging for insects and fruits.
