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Photo: © Sam Woods eBird S112321061 Macaulay Library ML457172711
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Large-tailed Trogon

Trogon (melanurus) macrourara
Trogón Colinegro
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Song

Black-tailed Trogon (Large-tailed)

Appearance:  The Black-tailed Trogon (Large-tailed) is a medium-sized bird with a black head, back, and upper breast, with a white throat bordered by a narrow black line. The underparts are bright red, and the tail is black with broad white tips on the outer feathers, giving it a striking appearance.
Habitat: This subspecies inhabits humid forests, both primary and secondary, as well as wooded areas near rivers or streams. It can be found in the western and northern regions where suitable forest habitat exists.
Breeding: The Black-tailed Trogon (Large-tailed) nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. The female lays 2-3 eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status: The Black-tailed Trogon as a species is considered to be of Least Concern in terms of conservation status, according to the IUCN.

Distribution

The Large-tailed Trogon a subspecies of the Black-tailed Trogon is mainly concentrated in Amazon Region and North of the country.

Taxonomy

The Large-tailed Trogon (Trogon melanurus macroura)

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Trogoniformes
  • Family: Trogonidae
  • Genus: Trogon
  • Species: Trogon melanurus
  • Subsp: macroura

Vocalization

Call: The vocalization consists of a series of low-pitched, melodious whistles that are repetitive and distinctive. The calls are often described as soft and flute-like, with a gentle quality that carries through the forest understory.
Territorial Calls: It uses its vocalizations to establish and defend its territory against intruders. Males may produce more elaborate and persistent calls during the breeding season to attract mates and deter rivals.
Courtship Calls: During courtship displays, both male and female Trogons may engage in a duet of calls that serve as a means of bonding and signaling readiness to mate. These calls can be more intense and varied than their typical territorial calls.
Location Calls: Their vocalizations also help individuals locate each other within the dense forest habitats. The distinctiveness of their calls enables them to communicate effectively even in dense vegetation where visual cues may be limited.
Variability: While the general characteristics of their vocalizations are consistent, there can be some variability in calls between individuals and regions. This variability may be influenced by factors such as age, sex, or environmental conditions.