The resplendent trogon--the largest of the species--is one of the
handsomest of birds, on account of the richness and brilliancy of its
colour, the beautiful blending of tints, the flowing grace of its
plumage, and the elegance of its colour. On its forehead is a
curiously-shaped tuft, of slight and elastic feathers which curl over
something like those of the umbrella-bird. This ornament--as also the
head, throat, back, wings, and upper tail-coverts--is of the very
richest green, with a gloss of gold, which glows, when moved by the
breeze, with a changeable sheen. The upper tail-coverts are exceedingly
long, projecting considerably beyond the tail, and flowing gracefully
over the stiffer feathers beneath them. The lower part of the body is
of a rich carmine.
Another species, called by the natives the curucua grande, has a soft,
golden green plumage, a red breast, and an orange-coloured beak.
In the Gapo territory a yellow-bellied trogon, with a back of a
brilliant metallic green colour, and a breast of steel-blue, is found.
The trogon melanurus is remarkable for the beauty of its plumage, having
a glossy green back and rose-coloured breast. Bates found one seated
alone on a branch, at no great elevation, uttering at intervals, in a
complaining tone, its usual cry of "quaqua." It appeared to be a dull,
inactive bird, and even when approached seemed very unwilling to take
flight.