> Which of the following countries doesn't use the peso as their currency? Mexico,Philippines, Guatemala, or Argentina?And the answer: Guatemala. Photo courtesy: KetekaThe national currency of Guatemala, known as the quetzal,is named after the country's national bird. The quetzal is a colorful bird witha long tail, whose feathers were used as currency in ancient Mayan culture.This sacred bird of the Andes has been used as the namesake of Guatemala’scurrency since around 1925. President Jose Maria Orellana, whose image appearson the other side of a one-quetzal note, introduced the quetzal as an homage tothe bird’s place in ancient Mayan tradition and culture. Quetzalcoatl, the cultural force for good for both Mayas and Aztecs, wassymbolized by the head of a serpent adorned with the feathers of a quetzal. Thebirds were so sacred that killing one was punishable by death-- thus the birdswould be released after feathers were pulled. Interestingly, the pyramid at Chichen Itza, Mexico was constructed in such amanner that sharp sounds made inside it produce an echo that mimics the call ofthe quetzal. While we may never know whether or not the shape and structure ofthe ancient temple was intentionally constructed to mimic the quetzal’s callspecifically, the resemblance is palpable. Thus, beyond currency, the linkbetween god and bird is strong in ancient Mayan and Aztec culture.Today, the quetzal remains a sacred bird in Guatemala. National parks work toprotect its continued habituation in central and south America. Check out thisgorgeous bird for yourself with the video below.