Green Kingfisher vs Red-naped Sapsucker

In short

The Green Kingfisher and the Red-naped Sapsucker are distinct in both appearance and habitat preference. The Green Kingfisher is a small, green-backed bird often found near water, while the Red-naped Sapsucker is a woodpecker with a distinctive red nape and is typically found in wooded areas.

Identification tips

1. Location: Check habitat; near water suggests Green Kingfisher, wooded areas suggest Red-naped Sapsucker. 2. Plumage: Look for the green back and chestnut band of the Green Kingfisher versus the red nape and patterned back of the Red-naped Sapsucker. 3. Behavior: Note if the bird is diving for fish or drilling sap wells. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the kingfisher's 'tik-tik-tik' or the sapsucker's drumming and mewing calls.

Size

The Green Kingfisher is smaller, with a more compact body compared to the medium-sized Red-naped Sapsucker.

Plumage

The Green Kingfisher has a glossy green back and white underparts, with males showing a chestnut breast band. The Red-naped Sapsucker features a black and white patterned back, a red crown, and a red nape patch, with a white stripe down the wing.

Behaviour

Green Kingfishers are often seen perched low near water, diving for fish. Red-naped Sapsuckers are more arboreal, drilling sap wells in trees and feeding on the sap and insects.

Habitat

Green Kingfishers are found near small streams and rivers, while Red-naped Sapsuckers inhabit wooded areas, particularly those with aspen or mixed coniferous forests.

Voice

The Green Kingfisher's call is a high-pitched, rapid 'tik-tik-tik', while the Red-naped Sapsucker has a distinctive drumming pattern and a mewing call.