Pronunciation: [kwˈɛtsə͡lz] (IPA) 
The spelling of "quetzals" can be confusing due to the unique pronunciation of the "z" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, "quetzals" is spelled /kɛtˈsɑlz/ with the "z" sound indicated by the phoneme /z/. This sound is often pronounced as an "s" in other English words, but in "quetzals", it is pronounced as a voiced "z" sound similar to the "z" in "zero". "Quetzals" refers to the currency and national bird of Guatemala.
Quetzals are brightly colored birds that belong to the trogon family, specifically the genus Pharomachrus. They are native to the forests of Central America, primarily found in countries such as Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Mexico. These birds are renowned for their exquisite plumage, which features a mix of vibrant iridescent greens and blues, contrasting with red or yellow bellies depending on the species.
In addition to their stunning appearance, quetzals are known for their long, decorative tail feathers, which can reach astonishing lengths of up to three feet. These ornate tail feathers are highly sought after and have played a significant role in native cultures and mythologies throughout history, symbolizing beauty, freedom, and divine power.
Quetzals are generally arboreal and inhabit the high-altitude cloud forests, spending their time perching on branches and searching for fruit, insects, and small vertebrates. They possess a unique feeding behavior where they often snatch fruits while on the wing and then consume them while perched.
Due to habitat destruction and illegal trading, quetzal populations have been declining, leading to their classification as near-threatened or vulnerable by conservation organizations. Nonetheless, they remain an important symbol of beauty and conservation efforts in Central America, and many reserves and protected areas have been established to safeguard their habitats and ensure the survival of these majestic birds for future generations to admire.
The word "quetzals" comes from the Nahuatl language, which was spoken by the Aztecs and other indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica. In Nahuatl, the term for the resplendent quetzal bird, which is also the national bird of Guatemala, is "quetzalli". The plural form of "quetzalli" is "quetzales", which became "quetzals" in English.
