Scarlet-rumped Cacique vs Flame-rumped Tanager

In short

The Scarlet-rumped Cacique and Flame-rumped Tanager can be distinguished by their rump color and body structure. The cacique has a more slender build and a longer tail, while the tanager is stockier with a shorter tail. Both species have a striking rump color, but the cacique's is more vivid scarlet compared to the tanager's flame or lemon hue.

Identification tips

1. Rump Color: Look for the vivid scarlet rump of the cacique versus the flame or lemon rump of the tanager. 2. Body Structure: Note the cacique's slender build and longer tail compared to the tanager's stockier appearance. 3. Habitat and Behavior: Observe the cacique in higher canopy levels and the tanager at lower levels or edges. 4. Vocalizations: Listen for the cacique's more complex song versus the simpler calls of the tanager.

Size

The Scarlet-rumped Cacique is generally larger and more slender than the Flame-rumped Tanager, which is more compact and robust.

Plumage

The Scarlet-rumped Cacique has a vivid scarlet rump and a mostly black body. In contrast, the Flame-rumped Tanager has a flame or lemon-colored rump depending on the subspecies, with a similarly dark body.

Behaviour

The Scarlet-rumped Cacique is often seen in the canopy, sometimes in mixed-species flocks, while the Flame-rumped Tanager is more likely to be found in pairs or small groups, often lower in the forest.

Habitat

Both species inhabit tropical forests, but the Scarlet-rumped Cacique is more associated with primary and mature secondary forests, whereas the Flame-rumped Tanager can be found in a wider range of forested habitats, including edges and clearings.

Voice

The Scarlet-rumped Cacique has a varied and complex song, while the Flame-rumped Tanager's vocalizations are simpler and more melodious.