Mottled Spinetail vs Brown Snake-Eagle

In short

The Mottled Spinetail and Brown Snake-Eagle are easily distinguished by size and structure. The spinetail is a small, medium-sized bird with distinctive wing and tail shapes, while the snake-eagle is a much larger raptor. Their plumage and vocalizations are also different, aiding in identification.

Identification tips

1. Size and Structure: The Mottled Spinetail is much smaller and has a distinctive wing shape with hooked outer wings and a prominent tail. 2. Plumage: Look for the pale-mottled throat and ventral area on the spinetail. 3. Vocalization: Listen for the spinetail's rhythmic 'titititititi-rrit' call.

Size

The Mottled Spinetail is significantly smaller at 14 cm, while the Brown Snake-Eagle is a large raptor.

Plumage

The Mottled Spinetail has a pale-mottled throat and ventral area on otherwise black-brown plumage. In contrast, the Brown Snake-Eagle has a uniform brown plumage.

Voice

The Mottled Spinetail is rather silent but has a repeated rhythmic call, whereas the Brown Snake-Eagle's vocalizations are not described here.