Cinereous Tyrant vs White-winged Black-Tyrant

In short

The Cinereous Tyrant and White-winged Black-Tyrant are similar in appearance but differ notably in female plumage and behavior. Males of both species are predominantly black, but females can be distinguished by their coloration and wing patterns. Observing behavior and habitat can also aid in differentiation.

Identification tips

• Female plumage: Look for olive-brown with rufous highlights in Cinereous Tyrant females versus cinnamon tones in White-winged Black-Tyrant females.
• Behavior: Note the perching habits; White-winged Black-Tyrant males often choose conspicuous perches.
• Habitat: Consider elevation and geographic location; Cinereous Tyrants are typically in lower elevations.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small tyrant flycatchers.

Plumage

Male Cinereous Tyrants are black with red irides, gray wingbars, and gray outer tail webs. Female Cinereous Tyrants are olive-brown with rufous on the crown and tail, and two white wingbars. In contrast, female White-winged Black-Tyrants vary by subspecies but generally have cinnamon below and browner above, with cinnamon wingbars and tail base.

Behaviour

Cinereous Tyrants are often seen alone or in pairs, actively twitching their tails. White-winged Black-Tyrant males prefer prominent perches, while females are more retiring and less visible.

Habitat

Cinereous Tyrants are found in lowland areas below 1000 meters in northern Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and southwestern Brazil. White-winged Black-Tyrants are found across a wider range in southern South America, including the Andes.