Found in Southern Mexico and Central America, Resplendent Quetzals have a striking blue tail up to three times the length of their bodies. That's probably why the Aztecs considered this bird a representation of Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent, one of the most worshiped gods across ancient Mesoamerica. But no matter how sacred, Resplendent Quetzals are currently considered near threatened due to a declining population. Deforestation and illegal trade are the main threats to their survival. Le

Resplendent Quetzal: Mexico's sacred bird. Learn about these birds and the problems they’re facing on today’s BirdNote Daily: birdnote.org/listen/shows/resplendent-quetzal-mexicos-sacred-bird Photo © ryanacandee | BirdNote

The quetzal might be one of the most beautiful birds in the world. "The Hummingbird Effect" premieres Wednesday, April 12 at 8/7c on PBS. [VID: Compilation footage of quetzal flying] | Nature | PBS

The acoustic effect called "the Quetzal tail" comes from emitting an impulsive sound—short length but loud sound, an explosion, an applause or playing a percussion instrument—in front of the pyramid’s staircase. If we slap about 40 meters away on the perpendicular of the escalinata we hear a sharp sound, a strange squeak, a sound similar to the singing of the quetzal, the sacred bird of the Mayas. . . #Kukulkán #ChichenItzá Video Credit: @anilbrancaleoni | Jain 108 Academy