White-tipped Quetzal
NameWhite-tipped Quetzal
Common NameWhite-tipped Quetzal
Scientific NamePharomachrus fulgidus
FamilyTrogonidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)165
Plumage DetailsMales exhibit brilliant iridescent green plumage on the head, back, and upper breast, contrasting sharply with a bright red lower breast and belly. The undertail coverts are distinctly white, and the bill is yellow. Females are duller, with a brownish head and breast, and a less vibrant red belly.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of soft, mournful whistles or coos, often described as a repeated 'whee-oo, whee-oo' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the coastal mountains of northern Venezuela and the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green upperparts, Bright red belly, White undertail coverts, Yellow bill (male), Relatively short tail compared to other quetzal species
Description
The White-tipped Quetzal is a strikingly beautiful bird with iridescent green plumage and a vibrant red belly. It typically perches quietly in the mid-story of humid montane forests, feeding primarily on fruits. Unlike some other quetzals, it lacks elongated tail feathers.
