The Quetzal is a stunning bird with vibrant green plumage, long tail feathers, and a unique call. It plays a vital role in seed dispersal and is considered endangered due to habitat loss and poaching. Quetzals are important cultural symbols and have a ceremonial role in indigenous cultures.

Quetzals are found from southern Mexico to Bolivia. The resplendent quetzal and the golden-headed quetzal are the only species found in Central America. The resplendent quetzal was the sacred bird of the ancient Mayas and Aztecs. Today the resplendent quetzal is the national emblem of Guatemala (whose monetary unit is the quetzal).

Quetzals have iridescent green or golden-green wing coverts, back, chest and head, with a red belly. Their wings are suited to camouflage under rainy conditions, because their feathers blend well with wet and shiny green area. They are strongly sexually dimorphic, and parts of the females' plumage are brown or grey.

Amazing Facts About the Quetzal The quetzal is a bird that many consider among the world’s most beautiful. During mating season, male quetzals grow twin tail feathers that form an amazing train up to one metre long. Females do not have long trains, but they do share the brilliant blue, green, and red coloring of their mates.

There are six species of quetzal belonging to two genera; Pharomachrus and Euptilotis. These birds have green or blue metallic plumage on their bodies, with a deep red chest and belly. The males and females are similar in color, although the male is often much brighter. The female may also have brown and grey tones in her plumage.