Chestnut-breasted Malkoha vs Green-billed Malkoha

In short

The bill color is the most reliable field mark: the Chestnut-breasted Malkoha has a red bill, while the Green-billed Malkoha has a green bill. Both species have similar body structures, but their plumage and habitat preferences can aid identification.

Identification tips

1. Check the bill color: Red for Chestnut-breasted, green for Green-billed. 2. Look for the chestnut breast in the Chestnut-breasted Malkoha. 3. Consider habitat: dense forest for Chestnut-breasted, more varied for Green-billed. 4. Note any vocalizations, though they are not a primary differentiator.

Size

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

Plumage

The Chestnut-breasted Malkoha has a distinctive chestnut breast and a gray head, while the Green-billed Malkoha features a grayish body with a less pronounced chestnut hue. Both have dark tails with white tips.

Behaviour

Both species are arboreal and often seen moving through the canopy, but specific behavioral differences are not well-documented.

Habitat

The Chestnut-breasted Malkoha is often found in dense forests, whereas the Green-billed Malkoha can be found in a wider range of habitats, including open woodlands.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for field differentiation, and both species are generally quiet.