The quetzal

The quetzal is a bird which lives in Costa-Rica (Central America). It lives in the Amazonian forests. This bird has a green feathering and a bright red chest, except for the female. The female hasn't got a long tail and she hasn't got a red chest.

Each year, at the end of the building of the nest, the bird loses its feathers, which grow back the following year.

For the Mayas and the Aztecs, the quetzal was a sacred bird whose feathers were much sought-after.

The Quetzal is a mythical bird and the national bird of Guatemala. It is also represented on the coat of arms of the country.

Written by Zoé A., 4A