Fawn-breasted Tanager vs Blue-and-yellow Tanager

In short

The Fawn-breasted Tanager and Blue-and-yellow Tanager can be distinguished primarily by their underparts: the Fawn-breasted Tanager has a distinctive fawn-colored breast, while the Blue-and-yellow Tanager features bright yellow underparts. Both species have blue elements, but their distribution and intensity differ.

Identification tips

• Look for the fawn-colored breast of the Fawn-breasted Tanager versus the bright yellow underparts of the Blue-and-yellow Tanager.
• Note the blue head and wings in both species, but check for the blackish or greenish back in the Blue-and-yellow Tanager.
• Listen for the Blue-and-yellow Tanager's distinctive 'whiink' calls.
• Consider habitat: the Blue-and-yellow Tanager is more versatile in habitat choice.

Size

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

Plumage

The Fawn-breasted Tanager has a fawn-colored breast and belly with blue on the head and wings. In contrast, the Blue-and-yellow Tanager has bright yellow underparts, a blue head and wings, and a blackish or greenish back. Females of both species are less colorful but follow the same general pattern.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical tanager behavior, often seen foraging in mixed-species flocks.

Habitat

The Fawn-breasted Tanager is often found in forest edges and clearings, while the Blue-and-yellow Tanager occupies a range of habitats from scrubby edges and parks to pure forest.

Voice

The Blue-and-yellow Tanager is frequently detected by its song, a series of variable chips, or its 'whiink' calls. Vocalization details for the Fawn-breasted Tanager are less specific.