Friday, February 10, 2012

Photo-Finish Friday -- The Resplendent Quetzal

The Resplendent Quetzal
We wanted to see a male Quetzal on our trip to Guatemala.
We did.
Guatemala's national bird was in a cloud forest in  Biotopo del Quetzal, a wildlife reserve and the bird's home.
Those who wanted could go on a walk in the reserve while others could wait at a small restaurant as a Quetzal sometimes came to a nearby tree.
We waited at the restaurant until the hikers were back and then walked back to where our bus was waiting. As we got there the driver pointed to this magnificent creature flying between two trees.
I took several photos. This is the best of the lot.
Not everyone sees a Quetzal.
We were blessed, or lucky, or both that morning.

11 comments:

the Bag Lady said...

He is GORGEOUS!! Lucky you for getting to see him.

Leah J. Utas said...

Bag Lady, he sure is and we were.

Reb said...

I think you are blessed when they poop on you :) Beautiful bird though.

Leah J. Utas said...

That, too, Reb.

solarity said...

Eventually I run out of things to say besides "Wow!" Just "wow!"

Mary Anne in Kentucky

Leah J. Utas said...

Aye, Mary Anne.

messymimi said...

Good things come to those who wait back at the restaurant.;)

Leah J. Utas said...

So true, Messymimi.

Hilary said...

What a beauty of a bird. I'm happy for you that you got to see him.

Ron Scheer said...

I have many fond memories of Guatemala, but never saw a quetzal except on the currency. Thanks.

Leah J. Utas said...

Thanks, Hilary.

Ron, it is my pleasure to share the find.