Buff-throated Saltator vs Black-winged Saltator

In short

The Buff-throated Saltator (Saltator maximus) and Black-winged Saltator (Saltator atripennis) can be distinguished by their throat and wing coloration. The Buff-throated Saltator has a distinctive buff-colored throat, while the Black-winged Saltator has a black throat and more pronounced black wings.

Identification tips

1. Look for the buff-colored throat on the Buff-throated Saltator. 2. Check for the black throat and wings on the Black-winged Saltator. 3. Note the habitat: Buff-throated is more adaptable, while Black-winged prefers humid forests. 4. Observe the supercilium: Buff-throated's is less pronounced.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of saltators, with no significant size difference noted.

Plumage

The Buff-throated Saltator features a buff-colored throat and olive-green upperparts, whereas the Black-winged Saltator has a black throat and more prominent black on its wings. Both have a white supercilium, but the Buff-throated's is more subtle.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar behaviors, often seen foraging in pairs or small groups in the canopy.

Habitat

The Buff-throated Saltator is typically found in a wider range of habitats, including forest edges and gardens, while the Black-winged Saltator is more restricted to humid forests.

Voice

Both species have melodious songs, but specific differences in their vocalizations are not well-documented in the sources.