Golden-headed Quetzal
NameGolden-headed Quetzal
Common NameGolden-headed Quetzal
Scientific NamePharomachrus auriceps
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsMales display brilliant iridescent green plumage over most of the body, with a distinctive golden-bronze head and a bright orange bill. The primaries are black, and the undertail coverts are red. Females are duller, with a brownish head and breast.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, low, mournful 'wuh-wuh-wuh' or 'ka-ka-ka' series, sometimes a more emphatic 'whee-oo whee-oo'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south through Ecuador and Peru, and also in Panama.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green body plumage, Golden-bronze head (males), Bright orange bill, Red undertail coverts, Long, broad tail
Description
The Golden-headed Quetzal is a strikingly beautiful bird found in the cloud forests of the Andes. It is known for its vibrant iridescent green plumage and a distinctive golden-bronze head, often perching quietly in the forest canopy.
