PERCHING BIRDS. 157 



258. The Trogons have great brilliancy of plumage, 

 the usual tint being a golden green, contrasted boldly 

 with scarlet, black, and brown. They are found in the 

 tropical parts of Asia and America. The Resplendent 

 Trogon of Mexico, Fig. 128, is the most gorgeous of all 



Fig. 128. Resplendent Trogon. 



of them, its whole upper surface being of the richest 

 metallic golden green, the breast and under parts of a 

 bright crimson, and the tail being covered by long, soft 

 plumes of various colors. These plumes were used by 

 the ancient Mexican nobles as ornaments for their head- 

 dresses. 



259. The Kingfishers feed upon fish, which they take by 

 diving. There is but one species in this country. There 

 is a species in Europe of a similar character, but with 

 brighter hues. It is described as being exceedingly beau- 

 tiful, as, with the metallic glitter of its plumage, it glides 

 along the bank of a river, or darts into the water. Of 



