Olive Thrush vs Forest Thrush

The Olive Thrush and Forest Thrush can be distinguished by their eye and plumage features. The Olive Thrush typically has a dark eye, while the Forest Thrush has a distinctive pale eye and chestnut belly. Both species belong to the Turdus genus, but the Forest Thrush is more isolated in its Caribbean range.

Look for the eye color: Olive Thrush has a dark eye, Forest Thrush has a pale eye. Check the belly color: Olive Thrush is more uniform, Forest Thrush has a chestnut belly. Note the yellow skin around the eye in the Forest Thrush, which is absent in the Olive Thrush.

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized thrushes.

The Olive Thrush has a more uniform olive-brown plumage, while the Forest Thrush is noted for its chestnut belly and white belly feathering edged in dark, giving it a spotted appearance. The Forest Thrush also has bare yellow skin around the eye.

The Olive Thrush is found in a variety of habitats including forests and gardens in Africa, whereas the Forest Thrush is restricted to forested areas in the Caribbean.