Choco Sirystes vs Panama Flycatcher

In short

The Choco Sirystes and Panama Flycatcher are both part of the Tyrant Flycatcher family, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Choco Sirystes is notable for its prominent white wing edging and pale rump, while the Panama Flycatcher lacks these features and is more uniformly colored. Both species can be found in overlapping ranges in Panama, but they prefer different habitats.

Identification tips

• Look for the white wing edging and pale rump in the Choco Sirystes.
• Note the uniform plumage of the Panama Flycatcher.
• Consider the habitat: Choco Sirystes in forested areas, Panama Flycatcher in more varied environments.
• Listen for distinctive calls typical of Myiarchus species for the Panama Flycatcher.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized flycatchers.

Plumage

The Choco Sirystes has a gray upper body with a pale rump, black crown, wings, and tail, and distinctive white edging on the wing coverts and secondaries. In contrast, the Panama Flycatcher has a more uniform plumage without the prominent white wing edging and pale rump.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical flycatcher behavior, including perching and sallying for insects. The Choco Sirystes may be seen nesting in tree cavities.

Habitat

The Choco Sirystes is found from eastern Panama to northwestern Ecuador, often in forested areas. The Panama Flycatcher is more adaptable, found in a variety of habitats including open woodlands and edges.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented in the provided notes, but typically Myiarchus flycatchers like the Panama Flycatcher have distinctive calls that can aid in identification.