The Resplendent Quetzal
Large brilliant tail feather— Quetzali. That’s how the Aztec people referred to this magnificent bird, the resplendent quetzal. With its stunning emerald green and red plumage, long tail feathers, and golden crest, the resplendent quetzal is an important symbol in Central America’s indigenous cultures, where only the nobility and priests were allowed to wear quetzal feathers in religious ceremonies.
Royal Tail Feathers: A Mark of a Good Catch
During mating season, male quetzals grow twin tail feathers that form an amazing train up to three feet (one meter) long. They also put on quite a performance, flying back and forth between trees and calling out to attract a mate.