The Pharomachrus mocinno (scientific name) or quetzal is a strikingly coloured bird, native to Central American cloud forests and sub-tropical woodlands. With a height of 14-16 inches plus 26 inches of tail length, the quetzal weighs 210 grams. It is bright golden-green all over, except on its belly, which is red in colour. The female in this species has grey-brown plumage. The quetzal’s diet includes everything from berries, fruits to insects and small vertebrates like frogs. They are monogamous territorial breeders. The size of the clutch is of 2 pale blue eggs, incubated for 18 days. Guatemala’s national bird, the quetzal plays an important role in Mesoamerican mythologies. Its IUCN listing is NEAR THREATENED.
Quetzal
