Resplendent Quetzal
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q54800218" class="extiw" title="d:Q54800218"><span title="Scottish wildlife photographer">Charles J. Sharp</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameResplendent Quetzal
Common NameResplendent Quetzal
Scientific NamePharomachrus mocinno
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)63.5
Weight (g)195
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit brilliant iridescent green on their head, crest, back, and upper tail coverts, which form two greatly elongated streamers. The breast and belly are a vivid crimson red, contrasting with white undertail coverts. The bill is yellow. Females are duller, lacking the long tail streamers and having a greyish-brown head and breast.
Vocalization / CallThe Resplendent Quetzal's call is a distinctive, low, mournful 'whee-o whee-o' or 'kyow kyow', often repeated. It can also produce a soft, deep cooing sound.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatscloud forest, montane forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThe Resplendent Quetzal is found in the cloud forests of southern Mexico (Chiapas), Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and western Panama.
Identifying Featuresiridescent green plumage, crimson red breast, long flowing tail streamers (males), yellow bill, white undertail coverts
Description
The Resplendent Quetzal is a strikingly beautiful bird known for its vibrant iridescent green plumage and crimson red breast. Males are particularly notable for their exceptionally long, flowing tail streamers, which can extend up to 60 cm. This elusive species inhabits the cool, humid cloud forests of Central America, where it primarily feeds on fruits.
