Nepal, a land known for its awe-inspiring scenery and thriving biodiversity, brims with a plethora of captivating bird species. Among these is the Trogonidae family, often simply called "trogons". This family boasts roughly 39 visually stunning species that inhabit forests throughout Asia, Africa, and the Americas. In this blog post, we'll delve into the fascinating realm of trogons and uncover their distinctive characteristics, while shedding light on their presence in Nepal.
The Vibrant Trogonidae Family
One can easily identify trogons thanks to their unique physical attributes, such as large round heads, stout beaks, short legs, and robust bodies. Male trogons are particularly eye-catching due to their radiant color palette featuring iridescent blues, greens, reds, and yellows. Although female trogons exhibit relatively subdued hues in comparison, they still enchant birdwatching enthusiasts.
An Unusual Way to Perch
Trogons stand out from other bird families because of their peculiar perching style. Rather than sitting upright like most birds, they position themselves horizontally on branches with their tails pointing downwards. This posture helps them maintain balance while searching for food or keeping an eye out for predators.
Foraging Preferences
Primarily insectivorous creatures, trogons frequently hunt insects within the forest canopy. They're also known to eat small fruits and occasionally feast on vertebrates like lizards or frogs. Their hunting technique involves keen observation of insects from afar before swooping down swiftly to capture them with their robust beaks.
Curious Nesting Habits
Another engaging aspect of trogons is their nesting behavior. They create nests inside hollowed-out cavities within decaying trees or termite mounds. Both male and female trogons engage in childcare duties by taking turns incubating eggs and tending to the hatchlings.
Finding Trogons in Nepal
Nepal's myriad natural ecosystems offer an ideal environment for numerous Trogonidae species. To discover these dazzling birds, one can venture into the forests surrounding Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, or Langtang National Park. Lucky birdwatchers may even spot elusive species like the Ward's trogon (Harpactes wardii), a rare bird dwelling in the eastern Himalayan forests of Nepal.
In summary, the Trogonidae family constitutes a remarkable assortment of avian wonders that add a touch of mystique to Nepal's already mesmerizing biodiversity. Passionate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike will find that seeking a glimpse of these elusive trogons amid Nepal's captivating wilderness is an unforgettable experience.