Slaty-tailed Trogon vs Gartered Violaceous Trogon

In short

The Slaty-tailed Trogon and Gartered Violaceous Trogon are both colorful trogons, but they can be distinguished by tail and head coloration. The Slaty-tailed Trogon has a distinctive slaty-gray tail, while the Gartered Violaceous Trogon features a greener upper tail and a black head with a blue nape.

Identification tips

• Look for the slaty-gray tail of the Slaty-tailed Trogon versus the greener upper tail of the Gartered Violaceous Trogon.
• Note the black head with a blue nape on the Gartered Violaceous Trogon.
• Check for the yellow breast and belly on the Gartered Violaceous Trogon, contrasting with the darker chest of the Slaty-tailed Trogon.
• Consider habitat: Slaty-tailed prefers humid lowland forests, while Gartered Violaceous is more adaptable.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of trogons, with no significant differences in structure or proportions.

Plumage

The Slaty-tailed Trogon has a slaty-gray tail and a more uniform dark head and chest. In contrast, the Gartered Violaceous Trogon has a black head with a blue nape, a yellow breast and belly, and a greener upper tail. The wing panel of the Gartered Violaceous Trogon is densely barred gray and white, appearing pale gray.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical trogon behavior, often perching quietly in the mid to upper canopy.

Habitat

The Slaty-tailed Trogon is generally found in humid lowland forests, while the Gartered Violaceous Trogon is a habitat generalist, found in various forest types, forest edges, and even clearings with scattered trees.

Voice

Vocalizations are not detailed in the sources, but trogons typically have distinctive calls. Observers should note any differences in calls if heard.