COSTA RICA: Savegre Cloud Forest Reserve (Day 2)

We awoke to a brisk (45 degree F) and misty morning characteristic of the region.  With camera gear in hand, we met our native guide Melvin who we would soon discover was very passionate about all the endemic wildlife.  As on past trips, the expertise of the locals is essential for successful encounters.   And, Quetzals are notoriously challenging to photograph – so I welcomed all assistance.

The Resplendent Quetzal, a member of the Trogan family, is considered by many to be the world’s most beautiful bird.  It was revered by the Aztec and Mayan cultures – considered to the “god of the air” and a symbol of light and goodness.  Feathers were often worn by priests and royalty.  It is the national bird of Guatemala, but due to deforestation, sightings are even more rare in that country.

The endangered creature's appearance is strangely elegant and gaudy at the same time.  A Mohawk graces its delicate head, while its relatively large eyes facilitate vision in the dim forest light. Rich crimson breast feathers contrast with the irridescent green of the head and back.  Its body is approximately 1 foot long but its streaming tail adds 2 more feet to its length (!!). Males do not begin to grow these central tail coverts until 3 years of age.  Similar to antlers, the tail feathers are lost in the summer and grow to full length in just time for annual courtship period.