But the Quetzal is not the only attraction of its namesake national park. The tourism billed the area as the place where you can see the most famous bird of the cloud forest, the Resplendent Quetzal. It may be revered in Guatemala and grace cloud forests from southern Mexico to Panama, but the easiest place to see Resplendent Quetzal has got to be Costa Rica. 58 and Km. Avid bird watchers should note that December through June is peak quetzal season in Costa Rica, though they can be spotted less frequently year-round. The Quetzal Education Research Center brings students and researchers from around the world, including the host country, to engage dialogue and research focused on the tropical cloud forest and its floral and faunal community for the purpose of sustainability. The Resplendent Quetzal, Pharomachrus moccino, is such a beautiful bird, that we thought to share useful information to encourage you to visit the area where it can be seen. Size: If you go through the size of Resplendent Quetzal, it normally has the length of 36 to 40 cm along with the 65 cm tail streamer … Restaurant Chiruma, the jealous younger brother of Cacique wished the death upon Quetzal since he wanted to become the next leader himself. Venture outdoors on your next vacation to explore Costa Rica's Los Quetzales National Park. animaux costa rica observation des oiseaux oiseaux costa rica quetzal quetzales Vincent VARENNE Je m’appelle Vincent Varenne, je suis Franco-Costaricien et fondateur du blog de voyage Vert-Costa-Rica.fr. It is a special area for birdwatching, particularly the quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), a near-endangered species according to the UICN list. The Quetzal is found throughout the mountainous rainforests of … $204.00 $262 per adult. Quiet place surrounded by an exuberant landscape on the banks of the Savegre river, one of the cleanest least polluted rivers in Costa Rica and Latin America. 46 Likes (0) Views. You can definitely watch them at highland sites in Chiapas, Mexico but there aren't too many places that are readily accessible where the The prime time for Resplendent Quetzal watching in Costa Rica is mid-February to July–their mating season. Quick View. It is well known for its colorful plumage. The Quetzal is one of the most beautiful bird species in the planet. To this end, it collaborates with students and researchers around the world, Contacto: Fressy Ramirez A photographic guide to Birds of Costa Rica. The word quetzal was originally used for just the resplendent quetzal, the long-tailed quetzal of Guatemala, (more specifically a town called Petén) which is the national bird and the name of the currency of Guatemala. Males have a bright green plumage with a brilliant red breast, white tail feathers and elongated upper tail coverts. This endangered species of bird are found only in a select few places of Central America, including this National Park of Costa Rica. More than 140 species, many of them are unique in Costa Rica, makes this place a birdwatcher's dream. Especially if your timing is right. Magnificent sacred green and red bird. The resplendent quetzal is considered a specialized fruit eater, basing its diet almost entirely on wild avocado fruits. More info. Bird watchersfrom all over the world come to spot the Resplendent Quetzalin Costa Rica. AEAP: Costa Rica is the country that As Early As possible. You can find the Resplendent Quetzal from Southern Mexico all the way down to western Panama, where it lives in moist tropical forests in mountainous regions. This bird is most active in canopies and edges. The type of cloud forest generated by different climatic conditions includes trees covered with Many avid birders consider the Resplendent Quetzal the glittering crown jewel of birding in Costa Rica and Central America. “Your destiny has been decided, Quetzal. Home » The Costa Rica Animals » The Resplendent Quetzal. An altitude between 6,562-9.843 feet (2,000-3,000 meters). After 18 days of incubation, the eggs hatch, and both the male and female quetzal share parenting duties, feeding their babies fruit, insects, frogs and tadpoles. So where can you observe this beautiful, yet somewhat mysterious creature? While it’s true that the resplendent quetzal can be elusive, you are bound to have luck with the help of a local birding guide. Watching Quetzales, Tours. Hmmm. Ediciones Jadine: Susan C.L.Fogden. 1 review. A Resplendent Quetzal entering its nest The highest elevation of Los Quetzales National Park is 9,843 feet above sea level. The quetzal was breathtaking to behold, even in print. It still often refers to that bird specifically but now also names all the species of the genera Pharomachrus and Euptilotis. See also: My Pandemic Odyssey to Costa Rica: The Woo Woo; My Pandemic Odyssey to Costa Rica: A Rocky Start It is well known for its colorful plumage. Rome2rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Guests come here from all over the world to enjoy the wonderful birdwatching, to catch a glimpse of the infamous Quetzal bird, or to simply relax in the beauty of the lush green valley. Find all the transport options for your trip from Costa Rica to Puerto Quetzal right here. Morbi et leo condimentum, mollis velit interdum, congue quam. Other places to see resplendent quetzal in Costa Rica. The gift of merely seeing its bad self. Etiam molestie egestas quam. C’est également ce qui lui vaut son nom de quetzal « resplendissant » puisqu’il semble briller par … There are already reserves in Costa Rica and Guatemala in which the Quetzal still survives, but if the Resplendent Quetzal is to endure, it would be most beneficial to have a system of cloud forest parks from Mexico through Panama. 14 different ecosystems. Several pre-Columbian civilizations considered the resplendent quetzal as divine, perhaps because of their unique beauty. 12,355 acres (5,000 hectares). They may also dine on insects and frogs, depending on season and avocado availability. CALL US AT 970-449-3645 If I had to pick my favorite two-winged wonder in Costa Rica, it would have to be the resplendent quetzal bird. You will live forever.”. See also: My Pandemic Odyssey to Costa Rica: The Woo Woo; My Pandemic Odyssey to Costa Rica: A Rocky Start They generally live alone, but during mating season can be found in pairs and even in small groups. Dancing with Quetzals: Birding Costa Rica Vacation Itinerary. The resplendent quetzal (/ ˈ k ɛ t s əl /) (Pharomachrus mocinno) is a bird in the trogon family. In Costa Rica, the resplendent quetzal is protected within five national parks – Braulio Carrillo, Poas Volcano, Chirripo, La Amistad and the new Quetzal National Park. 3 types of rainforest. Rome2rio makes travelling from Costa Rica to Puerto Quetzal easy. And in life? Los Quetzales National Park is located in the district of Copey and canton of Dota, San José province, 76.5 kilometers south of the capital. Situated among the mist-covered peaks of the Talamanca Mountains, Los Quetzales is Costa Rica's newest national park, covering more than 12,000 acres of cloud forest. What a special moment – you have spotted the precious Resplendent Quetzal! In Monteverde, the quetzal is most frequently observed from March through June, during its mating season. This endangered species of bird are found only in a select few places of Central America, including this National Park of Costa Rica. The highlands between Km. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. They can be found in the mountain forests of this Costa Rica, where they call home. 7 endemic) bird species, an incredible variety of mammals, aquatic fauna of approximately 130 species of tropical fish, an abundance of amphibians (incl. Los Quetzales National Park is located in the district of Copey and canton of Dota, San José province, 76.5 kilometers south of the capital. It is one of the country’s most famous birding hotspots. ... San Jose, Costa Rica 376 contributions 19 helpful votes. Or gave me a kiss. Known for its vibrant plumage, the quetzal is the largest member of the trogon avian order. Quetzal Resplendissant du Costa Rica ©Frank Vassen Cette faculté à réfléchir la lumière, perturbe les autres animaux, qui apprécient mal la taille de l’oiseau, et sa position exacte. And then the quetzal thing. So here we were watching feathers flutter from a tree. The highlands between Km. VIEW TESTIMONIALS. Singing with the most beautiful voice ever heard of any other bird before or since, it flew down towards the murderer and took the necklace up into the trees. Quetzal is the “Q” on the animal alphabet in my kids’ classroom. Best destinations and places in Costa Rica to see Quetzal birds. Hotel and Environment. The type of cloud forest generated by different climatic conditions includes trees covered with Costa Rica is famous for resplendent quetzal spotting not because of its unique environs, but because of its protected forests. You can find the Resplendent Quetzal from Southern Mexico all the way down to western Panama, where it lives in moist tropical forests in mountainous regions. And in life? Well, the bird was once worshipped by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs for its radiant beauty. CABINAS EL QUETZAL. An adult quetzal weighs about seven ounces and measures approximately 14 inches long; in addition, the adult male resplendent quetzal grows a streamer tail, which can measure up to 30 inches long during mating season. Alone or in flocks, this bird is very difficult to spot. December through May is the best time to see them, but some travelers have luck during other months of the year. A gift. Venture outdoors on your next vacation to explore Costa Rica's Los Quetzales National Park. Der Quetzal wird auch Göttervogel genannt. Proclaimed a wise man and placed a jade necklace over the head of Cacique’s – a powerful Quiche leader – new born son. First if you want to do birdwatching you know the earliest the better. This magnificent bird, also known as Pharomachrus mocinno, belongs to the Trogan family and counts 6 species as members over all: the Crested, the Golden-headed, the White-tipped, the Pavonine, the Eared and of course the Resplendent Quetzal. Location. Read more. When it comes to looking for quetzals in Costa Rica, most people head to the isolated cloud forests of Monteverde, a four-hour journey from the Central Valley on windy, partially-unpaved roads.The lesser known-spot is buried in Costa Rica's pristine mountains of … We will help you. Named for the emerald and crimson quetzal, Los Quetzales National Park in Costa Rica is the newest national park protecting 12,000 acres of cloud forest. Look for quetzals and other high-altitude avian species in the wonderful Costa Rican parks and reserves. ... San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica +506-2740-1010 qerc@snu.edu. Bird watchers from all over the world come to spot the Resplendent Quetzal in Costa Rica. Its size and color green and red (especially visible in the males) makes it a real gem. 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). Its size and color green and red (especially visible in the males) makes it a real gem. Costa Rica +506 2200-0241 There are two subspecies, P. m. mocinno and P. m. costaricenis, respectively known as the resplendent quetzal and the Costa Rican resplendent quetzal, a species important to Mesoamerican myth. There are two subspecies, P. m. mocinno and P. m. costaricensis. So where can you observe this beautiful, yet somewhat mysterious creature? Young Resplendent Quetzals start to fly at about three weeks of age, although male birds only grow their long tail streamers after about three years. It was the Mayas who also believed the Quetzal as the “god of the air” and a symbol of lightness. About Us. The weather in the cloud forest might be sunny but the wet clouds can come anytime. It is one of the country’s most famous birding hotspots. The resplendent quetzal is found from southern Mexico to western Panama, usually residing in altitudinal cloud forests. La Ruta del Quetzal, Turrialba, Cartago, Costa Rica. Our guides are ready to serve your birding and nature photography needs in the USA, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Belize, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Jamaica. There are also many great Birding Lodges throughout Costa Rica from where you can start your Birding Adventure! What is the habitat of the Quetzal? CALL US AT 970-449-3645 Years later the Spaniards came and had a great battle with the Quiches. 107 of Route #2 – Panamerican Highway South of Costa Rica is “QUETZAL TERRITORY”. Cerro de la Muerte, Ruta 2 Sur km 70. Quetzals breed in cloud forests, but move to lower altitudes for part of the year.” To build nests in stumps or rotted trees Quetzals use their strong beaks. Best destinations and places in Costa Rica to see Quetzal birds. The natural habitat of this stunningly gracious green and red bird is cloud forest, which in Costa Rica is located in … ... San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica +506-2740-1010 qerc@snu.edu. Some say, that since the Resplendent Quetzal does not reproduce in captivity, it will “kill itself” soon after being caged or captured. If I had to pick my favorite two-winged wonder in Costa Rica, it would have to be the resplendent quetzal bird. It is a special area for birdwatching, particularly the quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno), a near-endangered species according to the UICN list. There are two subspecies, P. m. mocinno and P. m. costaricensis. Newsletter. Twenty-five years later, I was walking through the cloud forests of Monteverde in Costa Rica, hoping to make my lifelong dream of seeing a real quetzal … Toward the end of the rearing period, the female quetzal tends to leave her young, and the male must stay behind until the baby quetzals are ready to live on their own. The Quetzal is said to be easier to see in Costa Rica due to its protected forests with good infrastructure in terms of trails, roads and tours, especially in two main areas, Cerro de la Muerte and Monteverde Costa Rica. 58 and Km. Le terme Quetzal désigne en réalité plusieurs espèces d'oiseaux aux particularités physiques similaires, tels que le Quetzal brillant, le Quetzal doré ou encore le Quetzal resplendissant, pour ne citer que les plus connus. The region’s cloud forests are covered in wild avocado trees, the quetzal’s favorite food. Costa Rica is a shelter for one of the richest biodiversities on Earth. Los Quetzales National Park and Coope-Dota Coffee Experience. More than 140 species, many of them are unique in Costa Rica, makes this place a birdwatcher's dream. Hotel and Environment. Quetzal Valley Cabins San Gerardo de Dota Km 80 Interamericana Sur , 11701 San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica – Excellent location – show map 11703 San Gerardo de Dota Provincia de San José. Costa Rica is an incredible country in Central America that is perfect for bird watching, birding vacations and birding tours. There are already reserves in Costa Rica and Guatemala in which the Quetzal still survives, but if the Resplendent Quetzal is to endure, it would be most beneficial to have a system of cloud forest parks from Mexico through Panama. With a wide range of flora and fauna and unique animals native to Costa Rica, our cabins are sure to please any nature lover. Highly revered, it was a crime to kill the quetzal, and the name itself was a synonym for precious or sacred. 150 species of multicolored frogs), 220 species of reptiles and a world of insects, call Costa Rica home. Los Quetzales National Park in Costa Rica derives its name from a majestic looking bird, the Resplendent Quetzal. He tried to kill his nephew by several ways but each time he mysteriously failed. The Quetzal is the national bird of Guatemala, where it is also the name giver to the Guatemalan currency. It does seem very freedom loving, don’t you think so? Look no further than the valley of San Gerardo de Dota in Costa Rica’s central highlands. The Quetzal Education and Research Center is located in San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica, and acts as a second campus for the Southern Nazarene University. Another day Chiruma surprised Quetzal in the forest and shot an arrow straight through his nephew’s heart. The Quetzal Education Research Center brings students and researchers from around the world, including the host country, to engage dialogue and research focused on the tropical cloud forest and its floral and faunal community for the purpose of sustainability. 107 of Route #2 – Panamerican Highway South of Costa Rica is “QUETZAL TERRITORY”. Most likely seen in Costa Rica’s central highlands at Poas, Monteverde and in San Gerardo de Dota around the Cerro de la Muerte. Flying Resplendent Quetzal, Pharomachrus mocinno, Costa Rica, with green forest in background. Because of its ancient significance, the resplendent quetzal is Guatemala’s national bird, and today lends its name to their currency. Of course there is the ever present Clay-Colored Thrush (Turdus grayi), the national bird of Costa Rica… Trying to comfort the dying man, the bird landed on his body where it’s chest got stained by the blood. Even today, a glimpse of a wild resplendent quetzal feeding or simply perched in a tree can feel like a magical experience. Or gave me a kiss. Book Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, Costa Rica on Tripadvisor: See 351 traveler reviews, 636 candid photos, and great deals for Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, ranked #3 of 10 specialty lodging in Costa Rica and rated 4.5 of 5 … But the Quetzal is not the only attraction of its namesake national park. © Copyright 2004-2021 all rights reserved. The quetzal was breathtaking to behold, even in print. Le Quetzal est l'un des oiseaux emblématiques du Costa Rica, avec l’ara écarlate et le toucan. There are deep, smooth, slurred melodies in simple patterns echoing through the dense cloud forest. Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, Costa Rica At the Paraiso Quetzal Lodge, they really only have feeders for hummingbirds so other bird sightings are a little hit or miss. The fight brought many of the Mayans to grave, so a Quetzal bird landed on the Mayan ruler Tecun Uman. These birds inhabit the cloud forests of Costa Rica, however, they are easier to see in San Gerardo de Dota, and the entire Savegre River valley, where they are seen almost all year round. In Costa Rica, the resplendent quetzal is protected within five national parks – Braulio Carrillo, Poas Volcano, Chirripo, La Amistad and the new Quetzal National Park. Maybe I was meant to be here after all. Size: If you go through the size of Resplendent Quetzal, it normally has the length of 36 to 40 cm along with the 65 cm tail streamer … And then the quetzal thing. They truly are the most ornate and spectacular of the Trogons and can grow up to 25 inches / 65 cm. An altitude between 6,562-9.843 feet (2,000-3,000 meters). Quetzal Birdwatching Experience at San Gerardo De Dota Group Tour. During the breeding season the males attract attention by their loud calls and spectacular display flight high above the canopy. The next night, Chiruma snuck into Quetzal’s room, stole his necklace and wore it himself. It was declared a national bird in 1977 as it is very common. They may also be spotted in the private cloud forest reserves of Monteverde and in the cool highlands of San Gerardo de Dota, which sits 7200 feet above sea level along the Cerro de la Muerte. During this period, the bay and avocado trees bear fruit–the Resplendent Quetzal’s favorites. Twenty-five years later, I was walking through the cloud forests of Monteverde in Costa Rica, hoping to make my lifelong dream of seeing a real quetzal … Most guides carry a spotting scope for close-up views of the birds, so keep in mind that small digital cameras are great for photographing through the scopes. Dancing with Quetzals: Birding Costa Rica Vacation Itinerary. Un regalo. Costa Rica is an incredible country in Central America that is perfect for bird watching, birding vacations and birding tours. The resplendent quetzal has often been called the most spectacular bird in the New World. Read more. During your stay at Paraíso Quetzal Lodge, you will be immersed in exuberant vegetation and pristine habitat where you will get to know the most intimate secrets of the region.. An extension of 80 hectares contains a wealth of fascinating and unique flora and fauna. Most likely seen in Costa Rica’s central highlands at Poas, Monteverde and in San Gerardo de Dotaaround the Cerro de la Muerte. Diet The Quetzal mostly eats fruits of the avocado family, as well as figs. I was extremely lucky to have this amazing bird pose for me just a few meters away. Although many warriors died, every arrow just veered past Quetzal. These birds inhabit the cloud forests of Costa Rica, however, they are easier to see in San Gerardo de Dota, and the entire Savegre River valley, where they are seen almost all year round. 850 (incl. Like he read my horoscope. Well, the bird was once worshipped by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs for its radiant beauty. Males, in addition to their long tail feathers and jewel-like colorings, also display a green feather crest atop their heads. Quetzal Tour. Costa Rica The Resplendant Quetzal The spectacular iridescent plumage of the Resplendent Quetzal, a bird of the cloud forest and the sacred bird of the Maya. $dotcontent.find('7ca42581-b81d-4eb2-8520-3f13e7c76947').customCode, Top Six Extra Things to Pack on Your Next Trip Abroad, Ten Things to do on the beach in Manuel Antonio, High speeds, high waves, high in the air over Manuel Antonio, In-shore fishing off the coast of Manuel Antonio, Protecting the kinkajous in Manuel Antonio, The Top 5 Reasons I love living in Tamarindo, Naturalized Costa Rican Citizenship by Marriage. My 8-year-old son loves birds, and with both kids intrigued about quetzals because of that “Q” picture, we couldn’t pass up the chance to see them while were in Costa Rica. Monteverde, Costa Rica: Famous in the world for the Cloud Forests, ziplining and hanging bridges. Miriam's Quetzals and the San Gerardo de Dota valley offer amazing birding, so much that the San Gerardo de Dota is the only destination in Costa Rica mentioned in the book: Fifty Places to Go Birding Before You Die. It was my understanding at the … The resplendent quetzal (/ ˈ k ɛ t s əl /) (Pharomachrus mocinno) is a bird in the trogon family. Though many Central American cloud forests have fallen pray to deforestation and other man-made threats, many of Costa Rica’s cloud forests remain protected by law, providing opportunities for quetzals to live and breed in relative peace. Biologically, his long tail will help the male quetzal attract a mate – in practice, it is one of the bird’s defining characteristics, helping bird watchers identify it from a distance. It is one of the extinct species and mostly resides in natural reserves in Guatemala and Costa Rica. Look no further than the valley of San Gerardo de Dota in Costa Rica’s central highlands. More info. 243 likes. Situated among the mist-covered peaks of the Talamanca Mountains, Los Quetzales is Costa Rica's newest national park, covering more than 12,000 acres of cloud forest. Restaurant Resplendent quetzals have beautiful green body feathers, red breasts and long wings. The gift of merely seeing its bad self. Here, both Mayan and Aztec cultures considered the species sacred, due to its unique beauty and relative inability to live in captivity. Previously the Los Santos Reserve, the park protects sections of the Savegre River which originates high up on the Cerro de la Muerte and flows through the picturesque valley of San Gerardo de Dota.