Werner Celebrates Quetzal’s 100th Birthday

A quetzal pictured in its native habitat in Southern Mexico through Western Panama.

The Werner Wildlife Museum’s very own resplendent quetzal will celebrate its 100th year as a valued exhibit at the museum on Thursday, June 21. The celebration will take place during an open house and as the topic of the next Werner Wildlife Study Series.

The open house will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. At 7 p.m., Museum Assistant Eileen Lemm will speak on the ecology and history of the quetzal, a beautiful green and blue bird that was considered sacred by the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Cookies will be served throughout the day.

Quetzals are native to the mountains of Southern Mexico through Western Panama. The Werner’s resplendent quetzal was apparently first obtained in March 1918 by R.B. Blackmore after being shot by an Indian with a bow and arrow in Western Panama. Years later, it was donated to the Werner. The resplendent quetzal is listed as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

During the open house, visitors are encouraged to view the museum’s displays and check out the artisan show, “Earthworks,” currently on exhibit. The juried show features decorative arts and fine crafts by Wyoming Artisans.

The open house and evening presentation are free and open to the public. The Werner Wildlife Museum is located off the Casper College campus at 405 E. 15th Street. For more information call the museum at 307-235-2108 or email indiahayford@caspercollege.edu.