Sapphire Flycatcher vs Ultramarine Flycatcher

In short

The Sapphire Flycatcher and Ultramarine Flycatcher are both small, brightly colored flycatchers, but they can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Sapphire Flycatcher typically shows a more vibrant blue with a reddish-orange throat, while the Ultramarine Flycatcher has a more consistent deep blue with a distinct white supercilium. Both species are found in forested areas, but their ranges do not always overlap.

Identification tips

1. Look for the reddish-orange throat and breast on the Sapphire Flycatcher. 2. Note the white supercilium and underparts on the Ultramarine Flycatcher. 3. Consider habitat: montane for Sapphire, lowland for Ultramarine. 4. Use binoculars to observe the consistent blue tone in the Ultramarine Flycatcher compared to the more varied tones in the Sapphire Flycatcher.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small flycatchers.

Plumage

The Sapphire Flycatcher features a vibrant sapphire blue with a reddish-orange throat and breast, whereas the Ultramarine Flycatcher is characterized by a deep ultramarine blue with a white supercilium and underparts. The Ultramarine Flycatcher's blue may appear more uniform across its body.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical flycatcher behavior, often seen sallying from perches to catch insects.

Habitat

Both species prefer forested habitats, but the Sapphire Flycatcher is more often found in subtropical or tropical montane forests, while the Ultramarine Flycatcher is typically found in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for these species, but they are generally typical of flycatchers, with short, simple calls.