Trogon

a general name for a large family of tropical and semi-tropical birds, including about fifty specimens. The trogon has yoke feet like the feet of the woodpecker, save that the first and second toes of the trogon are directed backward, while the first and fourth toes of the woodpecker are reversed. The trogons are forest birds living on insects and berries. They are remarkable for softness and brilliance of plumage. The quetzal of Central America, known also as the long-tailed paradise or peacock-trogon, is one of the most gorgeous birds known. The body is no larger than that of a pigeon, but it is clothed in soft golden-green and crimson plumage, while the long upper tail-coverts project half a yard or more beyond the tail, forming a graceful spray or train. This trogon was held sacred by the ancient inhabitants of Central America.