Resplendent Quetzal
Pharomachrus mocinno
Near Threatened
The Resplendent Quetzal is often called one of the most beautiful birds in the world. Found in the cloud forests of Central America, males have stunning emerald green feathers and tail streamers that can be 3 feet long!
The ancient Maya and Aztec people considered this bird sacred and used its feathers in royal headdresses.
Listen to Resplendent Quetzal
song
Recording by Manuel Grosselet from Xeno-canto (XC914121)
call
Recording by Beatrix Saadi-Varchmin from Xeno-canto (XC326653)
Size
About the size of a small parrot
Medium (25-40 cm)
Wingspan: 35 cm
Weight: 210 g
Colors
green
red
white
Habitat
forestmountain
Diet
berriesinsects
Fun Facts
- ✨Male quetzals grow tail feathers up to 3 feet long!
- ✨They were sacred to the Maya - killing one was punishable by death.
- ✨Guatemala's currency is named after this bird.
- ✨Baby quetzals are born without their beautiful colors.
How to Identify
Conservation Status
Near Threatened
This bird is okay for now, but scientists are keeping a close eye on it. If we're not careful, it might need more help in the future.
Population trend: decreasing 📉