White-tailed trogon

The white-tailed trogon (Trogon viridis) is a member of the Trogonidae family within the order Trogoniformes. While primarily a forest-dwelling species, its presence near agricultural areas can lead to conflicts, particularly in regions where fruit farming is a primary economic activity.

The diet of this species consists mainly of small fruits, berries, and insects. In an agricultural context, white-tailed trogons are known to visit orchards to forage for soft fruits. Their feeding behavior often results in pecking damage, which exposes the inner fruit tissue to premature rot and insect infestation.

Regarding their biology, these birds typically nest in tree hollows. Their breeding cycle is seasonal, and their presence in agricultural areas tends to peak during the fruiting stages of native trees and nearby commercial crops, as the birds actively seek accessible food sources to support their nests.

The damage caused is primarily cosmetic and physiological, as damaged fruit quickly loses its commercial value. Beyond direct consumption, the secondary issue is the introduction of bacterial or fungal pathogens through the wounds caused by the bird's beak, which significantly accelerates post-harvest decay.

To mitigate the impact of the white-tailed trogon on agricultural yields, several management strategies are recommended:

• Installing protective exclusion netting to physically block birds from trees.
• Utilizing bio-acoustic deterrents that mimic the calls of raptors or distress signals.
• Deploying reflective bird tape or visual scares in high-value areas.
• Maintaining natural habitats at the borders of plantations to ensure the birds have alternative food sources.