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Species ProfilesQuetzal
The resplendent quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), the national bird of Guatemala, is regarded as one of the most beautiful birds on the planet. The male's bright mixture of red and green with its elegant tail feathers have long caught the human eye. It is documented that both Mayan and Aztec nobility adorned themselves with these splendid feathers at ceremonies. Quetzals stand at 14 inches and, without their 36-inch tail feathers, males are about the size of a common pigeon. The name quetzal comes from the Aztec, quetzalli meaning beautiful. Female quetzals maintain a similar color scheme, though their colors are not as vibrant, and they do not grow long tail feathers. Both sexes have sturdy beaks, which they use to hollow out rotted tree stumps for nesting. Females' beaks are black while the males' are yellow in color. Both parents share the nesting responsibilities, each participating in the 17-18 day incubation of their 2-egged clutch. It is during mating season that males grow their signature tails and engage in courtship dances to attract the opposite sex. Once born, hatchlings' eyes stay closed for a full seven days. During the first two weeks they are fed insects by both parents. Following this period they move on to fruits, vegetables, and small vertebrates. The young ones attempt to fly at three weeks, usually taught by the male. The first to fly is fed by the father, while the second is generally ignored until it flies. Quetzals do not acquire their classic colors until they reach three years of age. Quetzals inhabit high-altitude cloud forests from Mexico to Panama. Their diet consists of insects, small vertebrates and fruits - their favorite being of the avocado family. Deforestation of avocado trees is a major threat to quetzal populations. Collaborative efforts among governments, conservationists, and farmers are helping to ensure the longevity of the species by preserving this important food source. The quetzal is protected throughout its range.
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