Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet vs Choco Tyrannulet

In short

The Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet and Choco Tyrannulet are small, similar-looking flycatchers, but can be distinguished by their head coloration and behavior. The Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet has a distinct gray crown, while the Choco Tyrannulet has a more uniform olive head. Observing their feeding behavior and habitats can also aid in identification.

Identification tips

• Look for the gray crown on the Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet.
• Note the uniform olive head of the Choco Tyrannulet.
• Observe tail-cocking behavior in the Choco Tyrannulet.
• Consider the habitat: montane forests for Plumbeous-crowned, outer tree foliage with mistletoes for Choco.
• Use vocalizations if recordings are available.

Size

Both species are small and similar in size, typical of tyrannulets.

Plumage

The Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet features a gray crown that contrasts with its olive back, whereas the Choco Tyrannulet has a more uniform olive head and back. Both have pale underparts, but the Choco Tyrannulet may appear slightly brighter overall.

Behaviour

The Choco Tyrannulet frequently cocks its tail and is often seen feeding in the outer foliage of trees. The Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet's behavior is less documented but generally similar as it is also an active forager.

Habitat

The Plumbeous-crowned Tyrannulet is typically found in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, while the Choco Tyrannulet prefers the outer foliage of trees in similar forest types, often associated with mistletoes.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for these species, but listening for differences in calls may help if known recordings are available.