Question 1

True or false: The resplendent quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala and appears on its flag.

Accepted Answer

True. It’s Guatemala’s national bird, symbolizing liberty, and features on the flag and currency.

Question 2

True or false: Resplendent quetzals are found in tropical rainforests from southern Mexico to western Panama.

Accepted Answer

True. Their range spans Central America, primarily in cloud forests at high elevations.

Question 3

True or false: Female resplendent quetzals have the same iridescent green plumage as males.

Accepted Answer

False. Females are duller, with brownish-green and gray, lacking the male’s vibrant crest and long tail.

Question 4

True or false: The resplendent quetzal's tail feathers can grow up to three feet long, longer than its body.

Accepted Answer

True. Males have tail coverts that can reach 3 feet, used in courtship displays.

Question 5

True or false: Quetzals feed primarily on nectar from tropical flowers.

Accepted Answer

False. They are mainly frugivores, eating fruits like wild avocados, and occasionally insects.

Question 6

True or false: The quetzal was considered a sacred bird by the Aztecs and Mayans, symbolizing freedom.

Accepted Answer

True. Aztecs and Mayans revered it as the god Quetzalcoatl’s avatar; killing one was taboo.

Question 7

True or false: Resplendent quetzals can mimic human speech, like parrots.

Accepted Answer

False. Quetzals are not mimics; they produce simple calls and whistles, unlike parrots.

Question 8

True or false: Resplendent quetzals are migratory, traveling to South America during winter.

Accepted Answer

False. They are non-migratory, staying in highland forests year-round, moving only altitudinally.

Resplendent Quetzal Trivia Questions