The Resplendent Quetzal
A Beautiful Member of the Trogon Family found in Central America
May 29, 2009
Resplendent quetzals (Pharomachrus Mocinno) are found exclusively in Central American rainforests, from Southern Mexico and the Yucatan peninsula, through Panama. They are members of the trogon family, which consists of a number of colorful species of birds, most of which fall into a range between Northern Mexico and Northern Argentina. Unlike the other species of trogons and quetzals, which are found throughout the Amazon rainforest, the resplendent quetzal is only located in remote areas of Southern Central America.
Description of the Resplendent Quetzal
The male resplendent quetzal is arguably the most beautiful bird in the world. The feathers of its head, neck, wings, and back are a shimmering emerald-green color, which appear metallic blue or golden under certain light conditions. The bird's chest and belly are ruby-red, much like the glistening throat of the ruby-throated hummingbird. The male quetzal has two long plumes which originate at the base of the tail, and extend down to about 25 inches past the bottom of the tail, nearly tripling the bird's body length (which is usually around 14 inches). These tail covers are only exhibited on the males just before, and during breeding season. The female quetzal has a shorter tail, which is barred, unlike the male's pure white tail, and she is more dull in color than the male, with a greenish-brown appearance.
Where to Find Quetzals
These birds are generally found in dense rainforest, near the tops of trees. There are three locations that are easily accessible in Central America, which offer birders a great opportunity to spot these birds. Southern Mexico and the southwestern parts of the Mexican Yucatan, which also hold many Mayan ruins, are great places to find quetzals. These are some of the only lowland locations where the birds thrive, as they often prefer higher altitudes. Guatemala is also a great place to look for quetzals. The western parts of the country are mountainous, and covered by heavy forest and dense vegetation, which attract these birds. In fact, the national bird of the country is the resplendent quetzal, and the name of the country's currency is the Guatemalan quetzal. Costa Rica is also prime habitat for the resplendent quetzal. The mountainous areas of Central and Western Costa Rica are the best places to search for these beautiful birds in the nation, and there are many guided tours which help birdwatchers to find quetzals.
Diet and Habits
Resplendent quetzals feed primarily on fruits and nuts, but they also have carnivorous tendencies. They will eat insects, such as beetles and flies, as well as frogs and lizards. The birds breed from March to June, and nest in holes in trees, where the females lay two eggs. This type of quetzal is not endangered, but it is often hard to spot, as the birds live above the rainforest canopy.
The Resplendent quetzal is one of the most sought-after species by birdwatchers who visit Central America. They were recognized for their beauty by the Maya thousands of years ago, and are present in artworks from ancient Mayan civilizations, and their beauty and elegance is still recognized today. The resplendent quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala.
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