Scalloped Woodcreeper vs Chaco Earthcreeper

In short

The Scalloped Woodcreeper and Chaco Earthcreeper are both members of the Furnariidae family but differ in structure and habitat preferences. The Scalloped Woodcreeper is more arboreal with a curved bill, while the Chaco Earthcreeper is ground-foraging with a straighter bill and distinct white throat.

Identification tips

• Bill shape: Scalloped Woodcreeper has a curved bill; Chaco Earthcreeper has a straighter bill.
• Throat color: Chaco Earthcreeper has a distinct white throat.
• Forehead color: Chaco Earthcreeper shows a rufous forehead.
• Supercilium: Buffy in southern Chaco Earthcreeper, absent in the north.
• Habitat: Note the preference for ground foraging in Chaco Earthcreeper versus arboreal habits in Scalloped Woodcreeper.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small to medium-sized woodcreepers.

Plumage

The Scalloped Woodcreeper has a scalloped pattern on its plumage, while the Chaco Earthcreeper is darker with a contrasting white throat and rufous forehead. The Chaco Earthcreeper also has a buffy supercilium in the south of its range.

Behaviour

The Scalloped Woodcreeper is more arboreal, often seen climbing tree trunks. In contrast, the Chaco Earthcreeper forages on the ground and in shrubs and seldom cocks its tail.

Habitat

The Scalloped Woodcreeper is typically found in forested areas, whereas the Chaco Earthcreeper prefers open or light woodland and espinal habitats, often with ground bromeliads in the north.

Voice

The Chaco Earthcreeper's voice consists of slow, ringing notes, differing from the more trilled and strident calls of other woodcreepers.