20 Most Beautiful Birds in the World (Pics)

Quetzal: Quetzals are found from southern Mexico to Bolivia. The resplendent quetzal and the golden-headed quetzal are the only species found in Central America. The resplendent quetzal was the sacred bird of the ancient Mayas and Aztecs. Today the resplendent quetzal is the national emblem of Guatemala (whose monetary unit is the quetzal). The resplendent quetzal's long blue-green plumes cover its tail, which shows white beneath, in flight. Its head, with a rounded hairlike crest, and the upper part of its breast are gold-green. The bird's back is blue with a gold-tinged mantle, and its belly is red.