Chestnut-bellied Malkoha vs Green-billed Malkoha

In short

The Chestnut-bellied Malkoha and Green-billed Malkoha are similar in size and shape, but can be distinguished by their plumage and bill color. The Chestnut-bellied Malkoha has a distinctive chestnut belly, while the Green-billed Malkoha features a greenish bill and lacks the chestnut coloration. Both species inhabit similar forested environments, making careful observation necessary.

Identification tips

• Look for the chestnut belly on the Chestnut-bellied Malkoha.
• Note the greenish bill of the Green-billed Malkoha.
• Observe the overall plumage: darker with chestnut for Chestnut-bellied, more uniform gray for Green-billed.
• Both species can be found in similar habitats, so rely on plumage and bill color for identification.

Size

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

Plumage

The Chestnut-bellied Malkoha has a chestnut-colored belly and a darker overall plumage. In contrast, the Green-billed Malkoha lacks the chestnut belly and has a more uniform grayish body with a greenish bill.

Behaviour

Both species are arboreal and tend to move through dense foliage, often in the mid to upper canopy.

Habitat

Both species are found in forested areas, often in lowland and foothill forests, but the Green-billed Malkoha can also be found in more open woodland areas.

Voice

Vocalizations are not the most reliable distinguishing feature, as both species have similar calls. Observers should focus on visual identification.