Blue-breasted Bee-eater vs Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater

In short

The Blue-breasted Bee-eater (Merops variegatus) is best distinguished by its broad purple-blue gorget across the upper breast, whereas the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Merops oreobates) features a rich cinnamon-colored chest. Both species share a similar green plumage above, but the gorget and chest color are key differentiators.

Identification tips

1. Look for the purple-blue gorget on the Blue-breasted Bee-eater's upper breast. 2. Note the cinnamon-colored chest of the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater. 3. Both have a green back and yellow throat, so focus on the chest and gorget for identification. 4. Observe habitat: Cinnamon-chested Bee-eaters are more likely in montane areas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small bee-eaters.

Plumage

The Blue-breasted Bee-eater has a bright green back, yellow throat, and a distinctive purple-blue gorget on the upper breast, with light greenish-yellow to greenish-buff underparts. In contrast, the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater has a rich cinnamon-colored chest and a green back, lacking the blue gorget.

Behaviour

Both species sally out from perches to catch flying insects, a common behavior among bee-eaters.

Habitat

The Blue-breasted Bee-eater is found in a variety of habitats across its range, often syntopic with the Little Bee-eater. The Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater typically inhabits montane regions.