Resplendent quetzal Resplendent quetzal The resplendent quetzal () ("Pharomachrus mocinno") is a bird in the trogon family. It is found from Chiapas, Mexico to western Panama (unlike the other quetzals of the genus "Pharomachrus", which are found in South America and eastern Panama). It is well known for its colorful plumage. There are two subspecies, "P. m. mocinno" and "P. m. costaricensis". The resplendent quetzal plays an important role in various types of Mesoamerican mythology. It is the national bird of Guatemala, and its image is found on the country's flag and coat of arms. It also lends its name to the
Pavonine quetzal distribution resides within 10°N and 15°S. The pavonine quetzal is the only quetzal found in the lowland rain forests of South America east of the Andes. Specifically, its preferred habitat seems to be the "terra firme" forests found in the Amazon basin and surrounding areas. Within the forest, it appears relatively restricted to the lower and middle understory of the forest ranging anywhere between 250m and 1200m elevation. Other sources place this quetzal at lower elevations, ranging from sea level to 700m. Regardless, they remain highly arboreal, only occasionally coming down to the forest floor. In comparison, they fill a