Resplendent Quetzal look-alikes
Pharomachrus mocinno
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Resplendent Quetzal. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Golden-headed Quetzal
Pharomachrus auriceps
Key differences
The Golden-headed Quetzal has a golden-bronze head and lacks the extremely long tail streamers of the Resplendent Quetzal. Its range is further south in the Andes.
Crested Quetzal
Pharomachrus antisianus
Key differences
The Crested Quetzal also lacks the long tail streamers and has a more prominent, shaggy crest. Its range is also in the Andes, not Central America.
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