Black-winged Stilt vs American Redstart

In short

The Black-winged Stilt and the American Redstart are easily distinguished by their size and habitat preferences. The Stilt is a large wader with long legs and a distinctive black-and-white pattern, while the Redstart is a small, agile warbler with striking orange and black plumage in males. Their habitats rarely overlap, with Stilts favoring wetlands and Redstarts inhabiting wooded areas.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: Look for the larger size and long legs of the Black-winged Stilt. 2. Plumage: Note the black-and-white pattern of the Stilt versus the orange and black (or yellow and gray) of the Redstart. 3. Habitat: Observe the habitat; Stilts are in wetlands, Redstarts in wooded areas. 4. Behavior: Stilts wade in water; Redstarts are active in trees. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the Stilt's nasal call versus the Redstart's varied high-pitched songs.

Size

The Black-winged Stilt is significantly larger, with long legs and a slender body, compared to the small and compact American Redstart.

Plumage

Black-winged Stilts have a striking black-and-white plumage with long pink legs, while adult male American Redstarts are black with bright orange patches on the wings and tail; females and immature males are grayish with yellow patches.

Behaviour

Black-winged Stilts are often seen wading in shallow waters, while American Redstarts are active and agile, flitting through trees and shrubs in search of insects.

Habitat

Black-winged Stilts are found in freshwater marshes and wetlands, whereas American Redstarts prefer open wooded habitats, such as deciduous forests and fencerows.

Voice

Black-winged Stilts have a nasal, staccato call, while American Redstarts are vocally conspicuous with high-pitched phrases, especially during the breeding season.