Band-tailed Cacique vs Red-rumped Cacique

In short

The Band-tailed Cacique and Red-rumped Cacique are both medium-large black passerines, but the Red-rumped Cacique is distinguished by its bright red rump, which can be concealed when perched. The Band-tailed Cacique lacks this red rump, making it a key differentiator in the field.

Identification tips

• Look for the red rump on the Red-rumped Cacique, especially in flight.
• Note that the red rump can be hidden when the bird is perched.
• Both species are mostly black, but the Red-rumped Cacique may have a bluish gloss on the male's plumage.
• Use binoculars to check for the ivory-colored bill of the Red-rumped Cacique.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Red-rumped Cacique tends to be slightly larger, especially the males.

Plumage

The Band-tailed Cacique is uniformly black, while the Red-rumped Cacique has a distinctive bright red lower back and rump, though this can be hidden by the wings when perched.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors typical of caciques, such as foraging in groups and building hanging nests.

Habitat

Both species inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, but specific range details are not provided.