This is a truly spectacular bird that lives up to it's name. Their iridescent green head, chest and back, with the deep red of it's belly, contrasting with bright white undertail and yellow bill are an eye-popping treat in itself - and then the males have these tail streamers that can be up to 2 feet in length! These members of the trogon family are found from southern Mexico to Panama, and are high on the wish list of any birder travelling in Central America. Seeing these birds are certainly one of the highlights of my birding experience, and can honestly say that photos simply cannot capture the beauty of the Resplendent Quetzal.
Resplendent Quetzal, Pharomachrus mocinno
PS - as always click on the photos to see larger versions!
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