Quetzal Amazónico
Pavonine Quetzal
Pharomachrus pavoninus
Song
Pavonine Quetzal
Appearance: The Pavonine Quetzal is a medium-sized bird with a total length of about 35-37 cm (14-15 inches). It exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males and females having distinct plumage. Males have metallic green upperparts, a blue crown, red chest and belly, and a long, white-tipped tail. Females are less vividly colored with a green head and upperparts and a cinnamon chest.
Habitat: The Pavonine Quetzal inhabits humid tropical forests and montane cloud forests. This species can be found in various regions along the Andes, including the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the Central Andes.
Behavior: Pavonine Quetzals are often seen perching motionless in the middle or upper canopy of trees, where they feed on fruits, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates. They are known for their distinctive vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and melodious songs.
Breeding: These birds nest in tree cavities, where the female lays a small clutch of eggs that she incubates while the male brings her food. The chicks are fed by both parents until they fledge.
Conservation Status: The Pavonine Quetzal is considered to be of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Distribution
The Pavonine Quetzal is found in the South of Colombia and the Amazon Region
Taxonomy
The Pavonine Quetzal (Pharomachrus pavoninus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Trogoniformes
- Family: Trogonidae
- Genus: Pharomachrus
- Species: Pharomachrus pavoninus
Vocalization
Calls: The Pavonine Quetzal produces a variety of calls, including melodious, flute-like notes, and sharp, high-pitched whistles. These vocalizations are used for communication with their mates, signaling alarm, and establishing territories.
Contact Calls: Pavonine Quetzals also use contact calls to communicate with their family members and young chicks. These calls help maintain group cohesion and coordinate activities within their social group.
Territorial Calls: Pavonine Quetzals are known to defend their territories vigorously. They use vocalizations to establish and maintain their territories, often engaging in duets with their mates to signal their presence and ward off potential intruders.
Courtship Calls: During the breeding season, male Pavonine Quetzals may perform elaborate vocal displays to attract females. These courtship calls are often accompanied by aerial displays, where males fly around their territory while vocalizing to display their fitness and attract a mate.
Variability: The vocal repertoire of the Pavonine Quetzal can vary between individuals and populations, with regional dialects and variations in calls observed in different parts of their range.
