Penelope, Gr myth. Penelope, a Greek princess, daughter of Icarius and wife of Ulysses, King of Ithaca; the reason for bestowing this name on the Neotropical guans is unknown. Walks with agility along branches; often exposes itself gratuitously to the hunter by complaining loudly from high branch. Becoming rare in unprotected areas. From Arenal Volcano area, Costa Rica.