In the short anime series Latair the Earth, which adapts a children's picture book focused on environmental education, Quetzal is a supporting character encountered by the young protagonist, Kanade. The character is a quetzal, a species of bird native to the cloud forests of Central America, recognized for its vibrant plumage and exceptionally long tail feathers. In the narrative, Quetzal serves as one of the animal forms Kanade takes on through the magic of the Earth fairy Latair, specifically during the series' second episode, which centers on this encounter.

Quetzal is depicted as a friendly and sociable creature, living in a forest environment. The character's personality is best described as lovely and gentle, befriending Kanade upon their transformation and interaction. The primary motivation attributed to Quetzal, as with all the endangered animals Kanade meets, is not a personal ambition but rather the natural role the species plays in its ecosystem. Through Quetzal, the story illustrates the importance of the cycle of life, showing the bird eating nuts and returning seeds to the forest, thus contributing to the health and growth of its habitat.

The role of Quetzal within the story is fundamentally educational. By becoming a quetzal, Kanade experiences life from the bird's perspective, taking "a walk in the air" and interacting with other birds that share its long-tailed features. This transformation is a key part of the anime's premise, which uses magical adventures to teach young viewers about biodiversity and the behaviors of endangered species. The episode featuring Quetzal specifically conveys the beauty of expressing gratitude, suggesting that the character's way of life embodies a natural, harmonious cycle of giving and receiving thanks.

Quetzal's key relationship is with Kanade, the child who transforms into this bird. While Quetzal is not a recurring individual character with a complex arc, the experience of embodying the quetzal is a significant moment in Kanade's journey. It contributes to the child's growing understanding of the natural world and their developing desire to become an "Earth Saver" who protects these animals. The development is primarily on Kanade's side, as each transformation, including this one, adds a new layer to their appreciation for nature. Quetzal's notable abilities are the natural behaviors of the bird species: flight, consuming nuts, and participating in seed dispersal, which is highlighted as a vital ecological function.