Black-chested Mountain Tanager vs Lacrimose Mountain Tanager

In short

The Black-chested Mountain Tanager and Lacrimose Mountain Tanager are both vibrant tanagers found in similar Andean habitats. The most reliable field mark is the black chest band of the Black-chested Mountain Tanager, absent in the Lacrimose Mountain Tanager, which instead features a yellow tear-like mark below the eye. Both species forage on fruits and berries, but the Lacrimose Mountain Tanager may also include insects in its diet.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black chest band on the Black-chested Mountain Tanager. 2. Note the yellow tear-like mark below the eye on the Lacrimose Mountain Tanager. 3. Observe the overall coloration: more uniform green in Black-chested, more varied with blue and yellow in Lacrimose. 4. Consider the elevation: Lacrimose can be found at higher altitudes.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of mountain tanagers.

Plumage

The Black-chested Mountain Tanager has a distinctive black chest band and a more uniform greenish body. The Lacrimose Mountain Tanager lacks the chest band and has a notable yellow tear-drop mark below the eye, with more varied coloration including blue and yellow tones.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen foraging in mixed-species flocks and primarily feed on fruits and berries.

Habitat

Both species inhabit montane forests in the Andes, but the Lacrimose Mountain Tanager can be found at higher elevations, up to 3800 m.

Voice

The Black-chested Mountain Tanager's song is rarely heard and consists of jumbled notes and whistles, while the Lacrimose Mountain Tanager's vocalizations are not well-documented.