A MAYAN FOLK TALE THE KING OF THE BIRDS ne day, the Great spirit who guarded the Mayan world told the birds that they must choose a king. Almost every bird thought it should be king. The only bird that stayed quiet was the quetzal. The quetzal wanted to be king. but his feathers were a dull brown, and he looked quite plain. He didn't think anyone would choose him. The quetzal went to the road-runner, a very colorful bird, and said. "Your feathers are beautiful, but you are too busy being the messenger of the roads to become king, Lend me your feathers. I'll return them after I become king, and share the wealth and fame with you