Ruby-crowned Tanager vs Silver-beaked Tanager

In short

The Ruby-crowned Tanager and Silver-beaked Tanager can be distinguished primarily by their bill shape and plumage. The Ruby-crowned Tanager has a more slender bill and a distinctive ruby crown patch that is often hidden, while the Silver-beaked Tanager features a thicker, more prominent bill and a striking silver beak.

Identification tips

• Bill Shape: Ruby-crowned has a slender bill; Silver-beaked has a thicker, more prominent bill.
• Crown Patch: Look for the hidden ruby crown on the Ruby-crowned Tanager.
• Beak Color: Silver-beaked Tanager has a distinctive silver beak.
• Plumage: Ruby-crowned is mostly black; Silver-beaked is deep crimson with darker wings and tail.

Size

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

Plumage

The Ruby-crowned Tanager is mostly black with a hidden ruby crown patch, visible in certain light. The Silver-beaked Tanager is deep crimson with a contrasting silver beak and darker wings and tail.

Behaviour

Both species forage for fruits and insects, often seen in mixed flocks. The Ruby-crowned Tanager may follow army ant swarms.

Habitat

Both species inhabit tropical forests and edges, but the Silver-beaked Tanager is more commonly found in open and semi-open areas.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species.