How to Draw a Resplendent Quetzal

In this quick tutorial you'll learn how to draw a Resplendent Quetzal in 6 easy steps - great for kids and novice artists.

The images above represent how your finished drawing is going to look and the steps involved.

Below are the individual steps - you can click on each one for a High Resolution printable PDF version.

At the bottom you can read some interesting facts about the Resplendent Quetzal.

Make sure you also check out any of the hundreds of drawing tutorials grouped by category.

How to Draw a Resplendent Quetzal - Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: The resplendent quetzal is a brightly colored bird. The first step in drawing the resplendent quetzal is to draw the head with a small beak and some feathers in the back of the head.

Step 2: Next, draw the beak line and the circle for the eye.

Step 3: Then, draw the body that has a rounded belly and with the tail.

Step 4: The next step is to draw the wing and the feather detail down the wing and into the tail.

Step 5: Then, draw the long tail feathers. The feathers look like ribbons.

Step 6: The last step is to draw the foot on the body just above the tail.

Interesting Facts about the Resplendent Quetzal

The Resplendent quetzal is a bird, which belongs to trogon family. It is primarily found in Mexico and can also be located in Western Panama. Its colorful feathers make it quite popular among people. Their body is green in color while their breast is red. Resplendent quetzal length ranges between 36 centimeter to 40 centimeter and its tail can grow up to 65 cm. It usually weighs around 210 grams. Their skin can be easily torn as it very thin therefore the plumage acts as a protective covering for its skin. Fruits, insects and lizards form a substantial part of its diet.

Did you know?

  • Their beak is very strong although it is small in length. The color of the beak In males is yellow while in females its black
  • The tail of Resplendent quetzal is larger than its entire body.
  • Their nest is built with the help of both male and female members.
  • Resplendent quetzal is Gautemala’s national bird.
  • Gautemala’s flag also contains a picture of this bird.
  • Deforestation is hampering the population of this bird, which is already receding moderately.

Lesson plan note: Make children draw the flag of Guatemala and other countries that have flags with a picture of a bird. This will add to their general knowledge. You can also quiz them afterwards.

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