Chestnut Teal vs Scarlet Tanager

In short

The Chestnut Teal and Scarlet Tanager are easily distinguished by their habitat preferences and plumage. The Chestnut Teal is a waterfowl with a distinctive chestnut-colored body, while the Scarlet Tanager is a forest-dwelling songbird with striking red and black plumage in males.

Identification tips

1. Habitat: Look for Chestnut Teals in wetlands; Scarlet Tanagers are found in forested areas. 2. Plumage: Note the chestnut body and green head of the Chestnut Teal versus the red and black of the male Scarlet Tanager. 3. Behavior: Observe the Chestnut Teal dabbling in water; the Scarlet Tanager is more likely to be seen in the tree canopy. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the quacking of the Chestnut Teal compared to the burry song of the Scarlet Tanager.

Size

The Chestnut Teal is a medium-sized duck, larger and bulkier than the smaller, more slender Scarlet Tanager.

Plumage

Male Chestnut Teals have a chestnut body with a green head, while male Scarlet Tanagers are vivid red with black wings and tail. Female Chestnut Teals are mottled brown, contrasting with the olive-yellow females of the Scarlet Tanager.

Behaviour

Chestnut Teals are often seen dabbling in water, while Scarlet Tanagers are more secretive, foraging high in the forest canopy.

Habitat

Chestnut Teals inhabit wetlands and estuaries, whereas Scarlet Tanagers prefer deciduous forests and are sensitive to forest fragmentation.

Voice

Chestnut Teals have a soft quacking call, while Scarlet Tanagers produce a distinctive hoarse, burry song and frequent calls.