There are six species of Quetzal, of which the Resplendent Quetzal is the best known. He is the national bird of Guatemala and even lends his name to their currency. The male is distinguished by his long tail feathers, which can measure up to 65 cm in length. A weak flier, he forages in the canopy for fruit, particularly wild avocado. These are swallowed whole, and he reguigitates the pits, thus helping to disperse the trees. Solitary in nature, he pairs up with a female only for breeding. Nests are built in tree hollows, and both birds take turns incubating.
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