Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant vs Bran-coloured Flycatcher

In short

The Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant and the Bran-colored Flycatcher are both small, inconspicuous flycatchers, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and vocalizations. The Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant has a distinctive semi-concealed tawny crown patch, while the Bran-colored Flycatcher lacks this feature and is more uniformly brown.

Identification tips

1. Look for the tawny crown patch on the Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant. 2. Note the more uniform brown plumage of the Bran-colored Flycatcher. 3. Listen for the distinctive 'rrrrr-Ripeeo' call of the Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant. 4. Consider the habitat: Fulvous-crowned is more likely in dry forests, while Bran-colored is in varied wooded areas.

Size

Both species are small flycatchers, similar in size, making size an unreliable distinguishing feature.

Plumage

The Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant is tawny brown above with an off-white underside and a semi-concealed brighter tawny crown patch. In contrast, the Bran-colored Flycatcher is more uniformly brown without the distinct crown patch.

Behaviour

Both species are typically found in shrubbery and can be difficult to spot. They are both active and often seen foraging for insects.

Habitat

The Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant is found in dry forests south of the Amazon Basin and northernmost South America, while the Bran-colored Flycatcher is more widespread in a variety of wooded habitats across South America.

Voice

The Fulvous-crowned Scrub-Tyrant has a rollicking voice, particularly in the southern part of its range, often described as 'rrrrr-Ripeeo'. The Bran-colored Flycatcher's vocalizations are less distinctive and not as well documented.