No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeTopicsEnvironment and WildlifeThe Quetzal watching season begins in Costa Rica

The Quetzal watching season begins in Costa Rica

March marks the beginning of nesting season, and for all bird watching enthusiasts, it’s the start of the most anticipated times. In February, the male dedicates time to finding and courting his mate. He performs flights over the forest canopy at heights of more than 30 meters, free-falling before perching alongside other males and females.

By March, both birds search for a suitable tree trunk to carve out a hole and establish their nest. They prefer old, dry trunks between 3 and 11 meters high.

The female lays one or two eggs, which are incubated by both parents, taking turns every three hours. The chicks hatch completely blind and naked, their most vulnerable period.

The first green feathers appear behind the neck when they are close to leaving the nest, which happens at 28 days. Their parents encourage them to leave the nest by stopping feeding them.

Their first flight is often a complete disaster, frequently resulting in a crash landing. Their parents care for them and demonstrate how to climb back up to higher branches to attempt another flight.

During this season, Quetzals in this process can be observed in:

  • Monteverde
  • Los Quetzales National Park and Guarco Canyon. Both are a two-hour drive from San Jose.
  • La Amistad International Park (Biolley, Altamira).

Let’s remember not to disturb their habitat because if they feel threatened, they’ll abandon the nest. If they don’t find a nest within the next two weeks, they’ll separate.

You can spend a delightful day searching for the Quetzal at Miriam Quetzales that offers restaurant services and guides for Quetzal spotting.

About the Author

Uriel Aguero is a wildlife enthusiast and birdwatcher. Image by Jose Venegas

Reference: Attractive and Majestic: The Quetzal in Costa Rica

Popular Articles

Video Reveals the Hidden Reality of Deportees in Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s agreement with the U.S. to receive deported migrants has drawn criticism from human rights advocates. While the government assures that human rights...

Digital Movement Saves Colombian Rare Fruits From Extinction

In front of thousands of internet followers, the so-called "lord of native fruits" describes flavors, textures, and possible uses of rare specimens. Gian Paolo...

Insecurity and Exchange Rate Woes Impact Costa Rica Tourism

For years, tourism has been the engine of the Costa Rican economy. However, the industry is currently facing several challenges that compromise its growth...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait

Latest Articles