Resplendent Quetzal

About

How resplendent quetzal lives

Resplendent quetzals live in Central American cloud forests, nesting in tree cavities and feeding heavily on wild avocados. Male quetzals grow long tail streamers that can trail far behind the body during breeding season. Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.

Conservation

Status and habitat pressure

Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink. Protecting resplendent quetzal also depends on keeping forest, rainforest, mountains habitats healthy and connected.

Vulnerable species can decline quickly when habitat loss, climate pressure, or human conflict intensifies.

Quick Facts

Things to notice

• Male quetzals grow long tail streamers that can trail far behind the body during breeding season.
• Feathers serve many jobs at once, including insulation, waterproofing, signaling, and flight control.
• Forest habitats reward animals that can climb, hide, or move quietly through layered vegetation.
• Vulnerable species face mounting risks and can decline quickly if habitats continue to shrink.