The Resplendent Quetzal is a small bird that belongs to the family Trogonidae, which includes other colorful and exotic birds such as trogons and quetzals. It is native to the cloud forests of Central America, from southern Mexico to western Panama. It is considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world, with its iridescent green and red plumage, long tail feathers, and crest. It is also a symbol of Guatemala, where it is the national bird and the name of the currency.

The Resplendent Quetzal has a black bill, a slender body, and a long tail. It measures about 36 to 40 cm (14 to 16 inches) in length, and weighs about 210 g (7.4 oz). The male has a bright red lower breast and belly, and a green upper breast, back, wings, and head. The male also has a blue-violet crest that can be raised or lowered, and two long tail feathers that can reach up to 65 cm (26 inches) in length. The female is similar to the male, but has a duller red belly, a greenish crest, and shorter tail feathers.

The Resplendent Quetzal feeds mainly on fruits, especially those of the laurel family, such as avocados, wild nutmegs, and cinnamon. It also eats insects, spiders, frogs, lizards, and small birds. It forages in the canopy and subcanopy of the forest, often in pairs or small groups. It has a loud and harsh voice, and can produce a variety of sounds, including imitations of other birds, animals, and humans. It has a distinctive chuckling call note, and a song that resembles a robin’s but is clearer and less nasal.

The Resplendent Quetzal breeds from March to June, depending on the location. It nests in cavities of dead or decaying trees, usually at a height of 10 to 30 m (33 to 98 ft). The male and female take turns to excavate the nest hole, using their bills and feet. The female lays two to four pale blue eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about 18 days. The chicks are fed by both parents for about 24 days, until they are ready to leave the nest. The young quetzals stay with their parents for another two months, until they are able to fend for themselves .

The Resplendent Quetzal is a resident bird that does not migrate. However, it may move to lower or higher elevations depending on the availability of food and nesting sites. It is not threatened by extinction, and has a large and stable population. However, it may face some threats from habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation, as well as from hunting, trapping, and poaching. Therefore, it is important to protect and conserve its natural environment, and to appreciate its beauty and role in the ecosystem .

The Resplendent Quetzal has a significant role in the culture and history of the region. It was sacred to the ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations, who associated it with the god Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent. The quetzal feathers were used as currency, ornaments, and ceremonial items by the indigenous people. The quetzal was also a symbol of freedom and independence, as it was believed that it would die in captivity. Today, the quetzal is still revered and admired by many people, and is a source of pride and inspiration for Guatemala and other Central American countries .