Malayan Crested Fireback vs Great Argus

In short

The Malayan Crested Fireback and the Great Argus are both forest-dwelling pheasants, but they differ significantly in appearance. The Fireback has a tufted crest and vivid flame-orange back patch, while the Great Argus is known for its extremely long tail and intricate eye-spotted plumage.

Identification tips

1. Look for the tufted crest and flame-orange back on the Malayan Crested Fireback. 2. Note the extremely long tail and eye-spotted plumage of the Great Argus. 3. Consider the size difference; the Great Argus is much larger. 4. Listen for the loud calls of the Great Argus, especially during breeding season.

Size

The Great Argus is significantly larger, with a much longer tail compared to the more compact Malayan Crested Fireback.

Plumage

The male Malayan Crested Fireback has a tufted crest, electric blue facial skin, a flame-orange patch on its back, and a bright white tail. In contrast, the Great Argus has a brown body with intricate eye-spotted patterns on its wings and an exceptionally long tail. Females of both species are drabber, but the Fireback female has rich orange chestnut plumage with white streaking.

Behaviour

Both species are wary and inhabit dense forest undergrowth, but the Fireback is often found in small groups, while the Great Argus is more solitary.

Habitat

Both species prefer lowland rainforests, but the Fireback shows some preference for areas near rivers and streams.

Voice

The Malayan Crested Fireback has strange contact calls, while the Great Argus is known for its loud, resonant calls, especially during the breeding season.