Crested Quetzal
NameCrested Quetzal
Common NameCrested Quetzal
Scientific NamePharomachrus antisianus
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsMales have iridescent green upperparts, head, and breast, with a vibrant red lower breast and belly. Their undertail coverts are white, and they possess a prominent bristly crest on the head. The bill is yellow, and they have a red eye-ring. Females are duller, with a brownish head and breast, less extensive red on the belly, and lack the crest.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of soft, mournful whistles or cooing notes, often described as a series of 'whee-oo' or 'ka-ka-ka-ka' sounds.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, ranging from western Venezuela through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into central Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green plumage, Bright red belly, White undertail coverts, Yellow bill, Red eye-ring, Male's bristly crest
Description
The Crested Quetzal is a strikingly beautiful bird found in Andean cloud forests. Males display iridescent green plumage, a bright red belly, and a distinctive bristly crest on their head. They are primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits while perching quietly in the forest canopy.
