Green Kingfisher vs Green-and-rufous Kingfisher

In short

The Green Kingfisher and Green-and-rufous Kingfisher are both small, similarly structured kingfishers, but they can be distinguished by plumage and habitat preferences. The Green Kingfisher is more widespread in North America, while the Green-and-rufous Kingfisher is found further south in South America.

Identification tips

1. Look for the chestnut breast band in male Green Kingfishers. 2. Note the rufous underparts of the Green-and-rufous Kingfisher. 3. Consider habitat: Green Kingfishers are in more open areas, while Green-and-rufous Kingfishers prefer dense forests. 4. Size can be a clue; Green-and-rufous is slightly larger.

Size

Both species are small kingfishers, but the Green-and-rufous Kingfisher is slightly larger.

Plumage

The Green Kingfisher has a green back and white underparts with a chestnut breast band in males, while the Green-and-rufous Kingfisher is more striking with a green back and a rufous (reddish-brown) underbelly.

Behaviour

Both species hunt by diving into water from a perch, but the Green Kingfisher is more likely to be seen at smaller streams.

Habitat

Green Kingfishers are found in small streams and rivers, often in more open areas, while Green-and-rufous Kingfishers prefer dense forested streams and rivers.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for both species, but they are generally quiet and not often heard.