The Sumatran trogon is a species of bird in the family Trogonidae. It was formerly considered conspecific with the Javan trogon under the common name blue-tailed trogon.
Region
Sumatra (Greater Sunda Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and mature secondary montane evergreen forest, typically within the Barisan mountain chain that runs the length of Sumatra. It favors dense, humid mid-elevation to high-elevation forest with a closed canopy and abundant epiphytes. Birds are most often encountered along forested ridges, ravines, and near forest streams where insect activity is high. It tolerates some selective logging if adequate midstory structure remains, but is scarce in heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
600–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This trogon is confined to Sumatra’s montane forests and was split from the Javan trogon after studies showed clear differences in voice and plumage. Like other trogons, it often sits motionless for long periods, making it easy to overlook in dense foliage. Trogons have a unique heterodactyl foot arrangement (two toes forward, two back but in a different configuration from woodpeckers), aiding their steady perching in the midstory.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, sometimes with a dependent juvenile. Pairs maintain small territories and nest in cavities they excavate or enlarge in rotten trunks or stumps. Both sexes participate in nesting duties, with the male often acting as lookout while the female incubates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft series of mellow, mournful whistles delivered at measured intervals, carrying surprisingly well through dense forest. Calls include low coos and short whistled notes used for pair contact.
Plumage
Smooth, satiny plumage with contrasting upperparts and underparts; tail appears clean and brightly colored with pale barring below. Male shows richer, more saturated colors and crisper contrasts; female is duller and browner overall with softer contrasts.
Diet
Takes a variety of large insects such as beetles, katydids, stick insects, and caterpillars, supplemented by small fruits and berries. It typically hunts by sallying from a shaded perch to snatch prey off leaves or in midair, then returns to the same or a nearby perch. Occasional small arthropods are gleaned methodically from foliage and epiphytes.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the midstory and lower canopy along quiet forest trails, gullies, and stream edges. Often selects perches with filtered light where prey movement is easier to detect and fruiting shrubs are nearby.
