The tropical highlands of Central America are home to one of the natural world’s most remarkable and elusive species of bird: the quetzal. Well-known to the ancient Aztecs and Maya who inhabited southern Mexico, its fame has declined with the march of history, but this plucky and beautifully-plumed specimen still makes its home throughout much of Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Guatemala. The encroaching presence of man and the constant threat of predation has made it a master of concealment despite its colorful feathers, and anyone with an aim to glimpse this rare and resplendent avian will have their work cut out for them :if, that is, they don’t know where to look.
Nahuatl Namesake
The quetzal, of which there are six species, is named for the brilliance of its feathers, especially in the tail. In the Nahuatl language spoken by the ancient Aztecs, the word “quetzal” is a reference to this plumage; “quetz” means literally “to stand up,” as the long feathers covering the bird’s hind quarters can be seen to do. The resplendent quetzal, perhaps the most recognized of this still rather obscure breed, was the first species to be given this title; along with its sibling genera, its population skirts the edge of ecological jeopardy, due to a combination of human encroachment and low birth rates.
Bird Apotheosis
Because of its beautiful plumage and unusual appearance, the quetzal was highly regarded by Pre-Columbian Mesoamericans. The Maya and Aztec both worshiped gods which adopted the bird’s name :for the Maya, Kukulkan, and for the Aztec, Quetzalcoatl. In both cases, this was a feathered serpent god, responsible for lofty ideals and accomplishments such as learning, the introduction of corn, rebirth, and the creation of mankind.
National Bird
Not only is the Quetzal the national bird of Guatemala, but the country’s currency has shared its name since 1925, when President Jose Maria Orellana instituted the quetzal as a replacement for the peso. Both coin and bill forms of the quetzal exist, and it is divided into 100 centavos, or “lenes” as they are popularly known. The bills themselves do not carry the image of the quetzal, but rather famous leaders and historical scenes important to Guatemalan national identity.
Catching a Glimpse
Those who merely wish to glimpse this remarkable specimen of tropical fauna must arm themselves with patience, as the quetzal has survived this long only by becoming extremely adept at hiding. It’s bright green plumage would be a disadvantage anywhere but the lush, verdant jungle habitat it calls home. The high temperatures of the Northern Yucatan restrict the quetzl’s nesting grounds to the cooler forests of southern Central and northern South America. Instead of spending days on end crouched behind ferns and jungle foliage, hoping to catch a fleeting glimpse of this adept and nimble bird, consider hiring a bird-watching guide to get the upper hand on the elusive quetzal and increase your chances of making a successful sighting. Contact a local bird-watching agency when planning your trip; they’ll be able to offer advice regarding the best time of year and most favorable locations. However, if your aim is merely to hear the song of this sought-after species, you needn’t make such elaborate preparations; a visit to any of several ancient sites, such as the Kukulkan pyramid at Chichn Itz, or the plaza at Tikal, will suffice. Simply clap your hands, and you’ll be rewarded with the resounding call of the quetzal echoing across the ancient stones.
Linda Patterson is a birding enthusiast from the USA. The Mexican Yucatan Peninsula offers amazing birding opportunities. Check these birding tours for more information on this great destination.