Quetzals in Guatemala's Tropical Biotopo Park
Hike Cloud Forest with Waterfalls, Lush Vegetation, & Quetzal Bird
Oct 25, 2009
Guatemala's national bird, the quetzal, is a rare treat for bird watchers, in part because much of the quetzal's habitat has been lost. The quetzal's original habitat extends from southern Mexico to Panama. Since 1976, Guatemala has been preserving a portion of the quetzal's cloud forest habitat at the Biotopo del Quetzal park.
Biotopo del Quetzal
Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera reserve is usually called Biotopo del Quetzal or just Biotopo. After paying the small (40 Quetzals for tourists, 10 Quetzals for Central American citizens) admission fee, visitors to Biotopo del Quetzal can listen to a short orientation lecture. They can learn about Biotopo's trails and about the quetzal bird. For only a few Quetzals, visitors can also buy a small brochure describing the quetzal in either Spanish or English.
There are two trails. Tourists must hike these trails to fully enjoy the Biotopo, so bring comfortable walking shoes, snacks, and liquids. Both trails are well maintained and have signs describing the different types of vegetation. There is some climbing, but experienced hikers will have no problems with the trails. Inexperienced hikers can stop to rest at rest areas along the trails.
The shorter trail has more waterfalls. These small waterfalls are quite scenic and have very nice pools. There is a larger pool at the end of the trail with bathhouses for changing into swim suits. After a hike, the water looks inviting. Both trails have lush cloud forest vegetation and the possibility of sighting a quetzal bird.
Either before or after hiking the trails, Biotopo visitors will enjoy visiting a small museum about the quetzal as well as a small snack and gift shop.
Guatemala's Quetzal Bird
The quetzal is Guatemala's national bird as well as its currency. According to the brochure sold at Biotopo, the quetzal bird is about 36 to 38 centimeters (14 to 15 inches) in size. Quetzals, especially the males, have spectacular red and green plumage. The male quetzal's tail feathers can extend another 76 centimeters (30 inches).
Adult quetzals primarily eat fruits. After swallowing the fruits, quetzals spread the seeds and contribute to the plants' reproductive cycles. Quetzals, especially the young, also eat a variety of insects.
After mating, female quetzals lay two blue eggs in small holes near the tops of trees. The trees must be a little rotten for the quetzals to dig these holes. Hence there is a risk that the tree will fall, killing the eggs. This fact combined with the destruction of much of the quetzal's habitat means that the quetzal is in danger of extinction.
Quetzals play an important role in Mayan mythology. They are still important to the culture and national identity of Guatemala so Biotopo del Quetzal plays an important role in preserving this Guatemalan national heritage.
Getting to Biotopo del Quetzal
Biotopo is on the main road between Guatemala City and Cobán near the small village of Purulhá. Visitors who don't want to rent a car can take the bus to Cobán and get off at Biotopo del Quetzal. Tourists should make sure they will be able to catch another bus when finished at Biotopo. Visitors to Antigua can inquire about a bus tour package to Biotopo, as well as other popular destinations such as Volcan Pacaya.
Bird watchers visiting Biotopo del Quetzal will enjoy the possibility of sighting the elusive quetzal bird. Tourists will also enjoy Biotopo's lush cloud forest vegetation and scenic waterfalls.
Further Reading
Guatemala, Belize & Yucatán, Lonely Planet, 2004.
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