The Central America Quetzal

This small, and largely unheard of bird, loves the relatively low temperatures and humidity offered by the Central American highlands. The Quetzal species has had a massive impact on the Central American people and government. This tiny colorful bird has been thriving in Central America since the times of the ancient Mayans. Here are a few ways this lightweight bird has influenced heavy changes in Central America. The species can also be found in Peru, Ecuador, and Venezuela. The small fowl has been battling poachers and natural selection for thousands of years, but the advanced means that are used by man today can’t be matched by the Quetzal’s “live free or die” way of life.

The Namesake

The name Quetzal originally comes from the Aztec term in Nahuatl, meaning “large brilliant tail feathers,” which the Resplendent is famous for. The Nahuatl word “quetz” means, literally, “stand up.” This word would often be used in reference of a large plume of standing feathers. In the beginning of the bird’s long history, only the Resplendent was given the name Quetzal, but with time it was discovered that there are 5 other Quetzal species, none of which are doing much better than the Quetzal in terms of numbers.

A God is Born

Some believe that its unique beauty inspired a Mayan god called Kukulcan in Maya; Quetzalcoatl in Nahuatl. The ancient god was believed to be the creator of the Mayan’s fifth and current civilization, according to ancient record. The beauty of the Quetzal is so unique that the Mayans gave their god its name, Quetzal or Kukul refers to the bird and Coatl or Can means Snake.

Green Bird, But not Money

The Quetzal has also affected a major trade of Central America, the money trade. The Quetzal of Central America, specifically the Resplendent Quetzal, has inspired the people here so much that currency being used in Guatemala is called the Quetzal, as well as it being the national bird. There is no word if Guatemala will change the name of their currency, or national bird, if the animal actually goes extinct, which analysts say could be likely if the trend of low birth rates for the Quetzal keeps up.

Birders

For the many birders hoping to catch a glimpse of one of these elusive birds, be prepared for a stakeout. The birds falling numbers and excellent hiding techniques has given it the upper hand against those who simply want to see it. Some birders spend days and even weeks in the Central American forests hoping to catch a sight and picture of the fast and nimble bird. You will increase your chances of finding the bird endlessly by hiring the service of a specialized birding guide. Plan your trip well by contacting us here to set you up with a birding guide.We will be able to tell you during what time of the year you should visit and we will take you to the perfect Quetzal locations.  . If you want your shot at seeing this ancient marvel living and flying today, then a trip to Central America is inevitable.

The resplendent quetzal is an aptly named bird that many consider among the world's most beautiful. These vibrantly colored animals live in the mountainous, tropical forests of Central America where they eat fruit, insects, lizards, and other small creatures.
During mating season, male quetzals grow twin tail feathers that form an amazing train up to three feet (one meter) long. Females do not have long trains, but they do share the brilliant blue, green, and red coloring of their mates. Male colors tend to be more vibrant.
Resplendent quetzal pairs use their powerful beaks to hollow hole nests in rotted trees or stumps. Inside, they take turns incubating two or three eggs—though males have such long tails that they sometimes stick outside the nest.

Young quetzals can fly at about three weeks of age, but males do not begin to grow their long tail plumes for three years.