The Hispaniolan trogon, also known as cacos is a species of bird in the family Trogonidae. It is endemic to Hispaniola in the Caribbean. It is one of the only two trogon species found in the Caribbean. It is the national bird of Haiti.
Region
Caribbean (Hispaniola)
Typical Environment
Occurs across montane and foothill forests on Hispaniola, in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. It favors humid broadleaf forest, pine forest dominated by Hispaniolan pine, and mixed forest with dense understory. Birds are often found along riparian corridors, ravines, and forest edges where fruiting trees are common. It uses shade coffee and other semi-natural agroforestry mosaics adjacent to intact forest, but avoids heavily degraded lowlands.
Altitude Range
150–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Hispaniolan trogon is one of only two trogons in the Caribbean, the other being Cuba’s national bird. It is the national bird of Haiti. It nests in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes, and is sensitive to forest degradation and fragmentation.
Hispaniolan trogon
Temperament
quiet, shy, and often sedentary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, direct flights between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. Pairs defend nesting areas and use tree cavities for nests, often reusing or enlarging old woodpecker holes. Both sexes participate in incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a slow, hollow series of cooing notes, often described as a mournful, repeated call. Phrases are spaced and carry well through forest, aiding contact between mates.
