Double-toothed Kite vs Plumbeous Kite

In short

The Double-toothed Kite and Plumbeous Kite can be distinguished by their plumage and behavior. The Double-toothed Kite features white leg tufts and a dark line down the throat, while the Plumbeous Kite is more uniformly gray. Behaviorally, the Double-toothed Kite often follows troops of monkeys to catch flushed prey.

Identification tips

1. Look for white leg tufts and a dark throat line on the Double-toothed Kite. 2. Observe behavior: Double-toothed Kites often follow monkey troops. 3. Note the more uniformly gray plumage of the Plumbeous Kite.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small to medium-sized kites.

Plumage

The Double-toothed Kite has distinctive white leg tufts and a dark line down the throat. The Plumbeous Kite is more uniformly plumbeous gray with no such throat line or leg tufts.

Behaviour

The Double-toothed Kite is known for following monkey troops to catch prey flushed by their movement. The Plumbeous Kite does not exhibit this behavior.

Habitat

Both species are found in the Neotropics, but the Double-toothed Kite is more closely associated with forested areas where it follows monkey troops.