Eared Quetzal
NameEared Quetzal
Common NameEared Quetzal
Scientific NameEuptilotis neoxenus
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)195
Plumage DetailsMales display iridescent green upperparts, a grey head and breast, and a vivid red lower breast and belly. The long, graduated tail features dark central feathers and white-tipped outer rectrices. Females are generally duller with less extensive red.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, mournful, whistled 'whee-o, whee-o' or 'whee-ah, whee-ah' call, often repeated and carrying far through the forest.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in western Mexico, ranging from southeastern Sonora and southwestern Chihuahua south to Jalisco and Michoacán.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green upperparts, Grey head and breast, Bright red lower belly, Long, graduated tail, Distinctive ear tufts (though not always visible), Mournful whistling call
Description
The Eared Quetzal is a striking medium-sized bird found in high-elevation pine-oak forests. It is known for its vibrant iridescent green plumage, grey head, and bright red belly. This species typically perches upright and is often heard before it is seen.
