Guinea Turaco vs Schalow's Turaco

In short

The Guinea Turaco and Schalow's Turaco are both vibrant green birds with striking red wing patches, but they can be distinguished by their crests and vocalizations. Guinea Turaco has a more prominent, rounded crest, while Schalow's Turaco features a longer, more pointed crest. Schalow's Turaco's call is slower with fewer notes compared to the Guinea Turaco.

Identification tips

1. Look for the crest shape: Guinea Turaco has a rounded crest, Schalow's Turaco a pointed one. 2. Listen for vocal differences: Schalow's Turaco has a slower call with fewer notes. 3. Consider the location: Guinea Turaco is more common in West Africa, while Schalow's Turaco is found in southern and eastern Africa.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of turacos, with no significant differences noted in the field.

Plumage

Both species display bright green plumage with red flight feathers. The Guinea Turaco has a rounded crest, whereas Schalow's Turaco has a longer, pointed crest.

Behaviour

Both species are arboreal and often seen moving through the canopy, but specific behavioral differences are not well-documented.

Habitat

Both species inhabit forested areas, but the Guinea Turaco is more often found in West African forests, while Schalow's Turaco is typically found in southern and eastern African forests.

Voice

Schalow's Turaco has a slower call with fewer notes compared to the Guinea Turaco, which can help in distinguishing them by sound.