Blue-tailed Bee-eater vs Chestnut-headed Bee-eater

In short

The Blue-tailed Bee-eater (Merops philippinus) and Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti) can be distinguished primarily by their head and tail coloration. The Blue-tailed has a more uniform green body with a distinct blue tail, while the Chestnut-headed features a rich chestnut head and nape. Both species share similar habitats and behaviors, making color the most reliable field mark.

Identification tips

1. Head color: Look for the chestnut head of the Chestnut-headed Bee-eater. 2. Tail color: Note the bright blue tail of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater. 3. Eye stripe: Both have a black eye stripe, but it's more prominent in the Blue-tailed. 4. Group behavior: Both species are social, often seen in groups. 5. Habitat overlap: Be aware of overlapping habitats; rely on plumage for ID.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of bee-eaters, with slender bodies and long tails.

Plumage

The Blue-tailed Bee-eater has a predominantly green body with a striking blue tail and a black eye stripe. In contrast, the Chestnut-headed Bee-eater is characterized by its chestnut-colored head and nape, with a green body and a blue tail, but less vivid than the Blue-tailed.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical bee-eater behavior, such as catching insects in flight and perching on exposed branches. They are often seen in small groups.

Habitat

Both species inhabit open areas near water, such as riverbanks and wetlands, often in similar regions. They can be found in lowland areas and sometimes in agricultural landscapes.

Voice

Their vocalizations are similar, consisting of high-pitched, repetitive calls typical of bee-eaters. Specific differences in calls are not well-documented.