Chestnut-collared Longspur vs Thick-billed Longspur

In short

The Chestnut-collared Longspur and Thick-billed Longspur are both prairie birds, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and display behaviors. The Chestnut-collared Longspur male has a distinctive chestnut collar and black belly, while the Thick-billed Longspur male features a white-and-black 'T'-patterned tail. Both species perform aerial displays, but their songs differ.

Identification tips

1. Look for the chestnut collar and black belly in male Chestnut-collared Longspurs. 2. Observe the white-and-black 'T'-patterned tail in male Thick-billed Longspurs during flight displays. 3. Note the habitat: Chestnut-collared Longspurs prefer grazed areas, while Thick-billed Longspurs are found in shortgrass prairies. 4. Listen for differences in song; the Chestnut-collared has a melodic song, while the Thick-billed has a tinkling, warbling song.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of longspurs.

Plumage

The male Chestnut-collared Longspur is notable for its chestnut collar, black belly, and yellow cheek, whereas the male Thick-billed Longspur has a white-and-black 'T'-patterned tail and lacks the chestnut collar. Females of both species are more cryptic and buff-colored, blending into their prairie habitats.

Behaviour

Both species perform aerial displays during the breeding season. The Chestnut-collared Longspur male ascends and descends while singing, whereas the Thick-billed Longspur male displays its white tail lining and sings a tinkling, warbling song.

Habitat

Both species inhabit open grasslands, but the Chestnut-collared Longspur prefers areas with short, sparse vegetation maintained by grazing, while the Thick-billed Longspur favors shortgrass prairies and overgrazed pastures.

Voice

The Chestnut-collared Longspur has a melodic song during its aerial display, while the Thick-billed Longspur's song is described as tinkling and warbling.