Fulvous-crested Tanager vs Tawny-crested Tanager

In short

The Fulvous-crested Tanager and Tawny-crested Tanager are similar in size and structure, but differ in their crest coloration and habitat preferences. The Fulvous-crested Tanager has a distinctive fulvous (tawny-orange) crest, while the Tawny-crested Tanager features a darker, tawny-brown crest.

Identification tips

1. Look for the crest color: fulvous in Fulvous-crested, tawny-brown in Tawny-crested. 2. Consider the habitat: lowland for Fulvous-crested, foothill/montane for Tawny-crested. 3. Note the company: both species may join mixed-species flocks, making habitat and crest color more crucial.

Size

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

Plumage

The Fulvous-crested Tanager has a fulvous crest that stands out against its darker body, whereas the Tawny-crested Tanager displays a darker, tawny-brown crest. Both have dark bodies, but the crest color is a key distinguishing feature.

Behaviour

Both species are active and often found in mixed-species flocks, but specific behavioral differences are not well-documented.

Habitat

The Fulvous-crested Tanager is more often found in lowland forests, while the Tawny-crested Tanager prefers foothill and montane forests. This habitat preference can aid in identification.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for either species, and differences in calls or songs are not a reliable field mark.