Spiny-faced Antshrike vs Scarlet-browed Tanager

The Spiny-faced Antshrike and the Scarlet-browed Tanager are distinct in both appearance and behavior. The Antshrike is a typical antbird with a more cryptic plumage, while the Tanager is colorful with a distinctive red stripe behind the eye and a yellow rump.

Look for the red stripe behind the eye and yellow rump to identify the Scarlet-browed Tanager. The Spiny-faced Antshrike will be more cryptic and found in dense undergrowth. Listen for the Tanager's 'chyup' call to help distinguish it in the field.

The Scarlet-browed Tanager is generally larger than the Spiny-faced Antshrike.

The Spiny-faced Antshrike has a more subdued, cryptic plumage typical of antbirds, while the Scarlet-browed Tanager is more colorful with a red stripe behind the eye, yellow rump, and white tuft at the side of the breast.

The Spiny-faced Antshrike is more secretive, often found in dense undergrowth, while the Scarlet-browed Tanager is more likely to be seen in flocks, foraging high in the canopy and often perching on exposed branches.

The Spiny-faced Antshrike is typically found in dense forest undergrowth, whereas the Scarlet-browed Tanager prefers the canopy and edges of forests.

The Scarlet-browed Tanager has a relatively low, squeaky chip call: 'chyup.' The Spiny-faced Antshrike's vocalizations are less documented but are typical of antbirds, often consisting of simple, repetitive calls.