Trogons: Trogoniformes

Trogons are distributed throughout central and southern Africa, Southeast Asia, Central America, and north and central South America.

Trogons usually live in tropical forests, being found from rainforests to tropical woodlands. Most species are scattered within the tropics and subtropics, usually inhabiting the middle elevations of forests. On the northern and southern edges of their habitat, trogons live in drier climates including thorn forests, bamboo thickets, and savannas (flat grasslands).

Hunters and collectors have targeted trogons for their brilliant tail feathers. Trogans, especially the quetzal (kett-SAHL), have often been given special status among ancient peoples. Today, many trogon species are very popular with tourists and nature lovers.

Trogons are relatively common but are still adversely affected by habitat destruction from humans. Ten trogons are identified as Near Threatened, in danger of becoming threatened with extinction, on the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Red List in 2002.