The scarlet-rumped trogon is a species of bird in the family Trogonidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical swamps, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Myanmar and Thailand through Peninsular Malaysia to Borneo and Sumatra, including Brunei and parts of Indonesia. Prefers primary and older secondary lowland rainforest, peat-swamp forest, riparian forest, and lower montane forest. Most frequently found in shaded midstory and lower canopy where it forages by short sallies. It persists in selectively logged forests but at reduced densities.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This trogon is a quiet forest specialist that often sits motionless in the midstory, making it easy to overlook despite its vivid rump. It nests in cavities in decaying stumps or trees, relying on mature forest structure. Its sensitivity to forest degradation and peat-swamp loss makes it a good indicator of lowland rainforest health.
Male Scarlet Trogon, Thailand
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between perches
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs maintain territories and nest in cavities excavated or enlarged in rotting stumps or trees. Both sexes participate in nest defense and provisioning of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, resonant whistles delivered at measured pace, often carrying far through dense forest. Calls include soft, repeated notes used for contact between pairs.
