Rufous-crowned Elaenia vs Small-headed Elaenia

In short

The Rufous-crowned Elaenia and Small-headed Elaenia can be distinguished by the presence of a rufous hindcrown patch in the Rufous-crowned Elaenia, which is absent in the Small-headed Elaenia. Both species have a white supercilium and similar wing patterns, but their vocalizations differ significantly.

Identification tips

• Look for the rufous hindcrown patch on the Rufous-crowned Elaenia.
• Note the white supercilium present in both species, but focus on the crown for differentiation.
• Listen for the Rufous-crowned Elaenia's growling call.
• Observe habitat: Rufous-crowned Elaenia is more likely in open, sandy areas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small Elaenias, making size a less reliable distinguishing feature.

Plumage

The Rufous-crowned Elaenia has a distinctive rufous hindcrown patch and is olive above with pale yellow underparts and indistinct gray streaking. The Small-headed Elaenia lacks the rufous crown patch and generally appears more uniformly olive without the streaking.

Behaviour

Behavioral differences are not well-documented, but both species are typical flycatchers, often seen sallying for insects.

Habitat

Rufous-crowned Elaenia prefers open areas with sandy soil below 1400 meters, while the habitat preferences of the Small-headed Elaenia are less specific in the notes.

Voice

The Rufous-crowned Elaenia is noted for its low-pitched, growling call, which can be a useful auditory clue. The vocalizations of the Small-headed Elaenia are not detailed here.