Every country has its own national symbols that represent its identity and values. In El Salvador, one of the most important national symbols is the Ave Nacional del Salvador or the National Bird of El Salvador. This bird is not only a symbol of the country’s natural beauty but also of its people’s resilience and unity.
What is the Ave Nacional del Salvador?
The Ave Nacional del Salvador is also known as the Turquoise-browed Motmot or the Torogoz. It is a colorful bird that is native to Central and South America. The bird is around 34 to 38 centimeters long and weighs about 80 to 120 grams. It has a distinctive turquoise blue and green plumage, a black mask around its eyes, and a long tail with two feathers that look like racket heads.
The bird’s scientific name is Eumomota superciliosa. It belongs to the motmot family Momotidae, which is known for its unique racket-tipped tail feathers. The motmot family is mostly found in the tropical forests of Central and South America.
Why is the Turquoise-browed Motmot the National Bird of El Salvador?
The Turquoise-browed Motmot was declared the National Bird of El Salvador on October 21, 1999, by the Legislative Assembly of El Salvador. The bird was chosen as a national symbol because of its beauty, uniqueness, and its connection to the country’s history and culture.
The bird’s turquoise-blue and green plumage represents the colors of the Salvadoran flag. The long tail with the two racket-tipped feathers is also said to represent the balance and harmony that Salvadorans strive for in their lives.
What is the significance of the Ave Nacional del Salvador?
The Ave Nacional del Salvador is not only a symbol of the country’s natural beauty but also of its people’s resilience and unity. The bird is known for its ability to adapt to different environments and survive in difficult conditions. This resilience is a trait that Salvadorans are proud of and often use to overcome the challenges they face.
The bird’s distinctive long tail feathers, which resemble two rackets, are also seen as a symbol of unity. Just as the two feathers work together to create balance and harmony, Salvadorans believe that they can achieve great things by working together and supporting each other.
Where can you see the Ave Nacional del Salvador?
The Turquoise-browed Motmot can be found in many parts of El Salvador, particularly in the country’s tropical forests and national parks. The bird is a popular sightseeing attraction for tourists who come to see its beautiful plumage and unique tail feathers.
If you want to see the Ave Nacional del Salvador in its natural habitat, some of the best places to visit include the Montecristo National Park, the Cerro Verde National Park, and the San Andrés Forest Reserve. These parks are home to many other birds and wildlife species, making them a great destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Conclusion
The Ave Nacional del Salvador or the National Bird of El Salvador is a beautiful and unique bird that represents the country’s natural beauty and its people’s resilience and unity. The bird’s turquoise-blue and green plumage, as well as its distinctive long tail feathers, are seen as symbols of the country’s identity and values.
If you ever visit El Salvador, make sure to keep an eye out for this beautiful bird and appreciate its significance to the country’s culture and history.