Surucua Trogon

Identification

The Surucua trogon is a compact bird measuring 26–28 cm in length, with males and females showing striking differences. Males of the nominate subspecies display a blackish face and throat contrasted by a distinctive orange eye-ring, royal blue crown, neck, and breast, and a coppery-green back that transitions to turquoise-green on the tail coverts. The belly is pinkish-red with gray flanks, while the underside of the tail is white with a black terminal bar. Females are mostly gray with red beginning lower on the belly, white spots before and after the eye, and a black-and-white patterned undertail. The subspecies T. s. aurantius differs in having a yellow eye-ring and orange belly in males, while females show yellowish-white to orange-yellow underparts.

Range & Habitat

The Surucua trogon is found across southeastern South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The nominate subspecies ranges from eastern Paraguay and northeastern Argentina eastward into Uruguay and northern Brazil as far as southeastern Tocantins, occurring at elevations up to 1,150–1,550 m depending on location. The subspecies T. s. aurantius occupies a more restricted range in east-central and eastern Brazil from Bahia south to São Paulo, reaching elevations up to 2,000 m. Both subspecies inhabit the mid-story levels of primary and well-developed secondary forests and semideciduous woodlands, with T. s. aurantius frequently associating with bamboo stands.

Behaviour & Diet

The Surucua trogon is mostly sedentary, though southernmost populations migrate northward during the austral winter, while the northern subspecies appears to be a permanent resident. The species feeds on a diverse diet of insects—both adults and larvae—supplemented by fruits and occasionally flowers, and regularly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Breeding occurs from September through December and possibly into January, with birds nesting in cavities within decayed trees or arboreal termite nests; documented clutches contain three eggs. The species' song consists of an ascending sequence of 14–20 moderately high-pitched 'diu' or 'kwa' notes with gradually increasing amplitude, while a sharp 'kiarr' call serves as a warning.

Best Time & Places to See It

The breeding season from September through December offers optimal opportunities to locate Surucua trogons, as birds are more vocal and active during this period. Look for them in mid-story forest levels within protected areas and well-developed secondary forests across their range. In Brazil, key regions include the forests of Rio de Janeiro state, Minas Gerais, Bahia, and São Paulo. The species can also be found in the Atlantic Forest regions of Paraguay and northeastern Argentina. Mixed-species foraging flocks may provide additional chances of encounter, particularly in areas where the birds congregate.

Photography Tips

The Surucua trogon's small size and preference for mid-story perches present moderate photographic challenges. Position yourself in or beneath the canopy during early morning hours when the birds are most vocal and active. The male's vibrant blue breast and pinkish-red belly offer striking color opportunities, while the contrasting facial patterns are particularly photogenic. Use a telephoto lens of at least 300–400 mm to capture detail from distance without disturbing the bird. Patience is essential; wait quietly near suspected feeding or breeding areas and listen for the distinctive song to locate individuals. Overcast conditions will reduce harsh shadows and help render the blue plumage accurately.