Gartered Violaceous Trogon vs Elegant Trogon

In short

The Gartered Violaceous Trogon and the Elegant Trogon can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Gartered Violaceous Trogon has a black head and bright green back, while the Elegant Trogon boasts a brilliant red belly and coppery tail. Habitat is a key differentiator, with the Gartered Violaceous Trogon being more of a generalist, while the Elegant Trogon is found in arid to semi-arid woodlands.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black head and green back of the Gartered Violaceous Trogon versus the red belly and coppery tail of the Elegant Trogon. 2. Consider habitat: Gartered Violaceous Trogon is more likely in diverse forest settings, while Elegant Trogon favors drier woodlands. 3. Observe the tail: Elegant Trogon has a longer, more coppery tail.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of trogons, but the Elegant Trogon may appear slightly larger due to its longer tail.

Plumage

The Gartered Violaceous Trogon has a black head, blue nape, and bright green back with a yellow belly. In contrast, the Elegant Trogon features a brilliant red belly, iridescent blue-green back, and a distinctive coppery tail.

Behaviour

Both species perch quietly for long periods, but the Elegant Trogon is noted for its long, fluttering tail during flight.

Habitat

The Gartered Violaceous Trogon is a habitat generalist, found in various forest types and clearings. The Elegant Trogon prefers arid to semi-arid woodlands, including thorn forests and pine-oak woodlands, and extends into the U.S. in southeastern Arizona.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented in the provided notes, but both species are known for their distinctive calls typical of trogons.