Sulphur-rumped Tanager vs Yellow-backed Tanager

In short

The Sulphur-rumped Tanager and Yellow-backed Tanager can be distinguished by their rump coloration and overall plumage. The Sulphur-rumped Tanager has a distinctive sulphur-yellow rump, while the Yellow-backed Tanager features a yellow lower back and rump patch. Both species are part of the Thraupidae family, but they differ in their habitat preferences and behavior.

Identification tips

1. Look for the sulphur-yellow rump in the Sulphur-rumped Tanager. 2. Check for the yellow lower back and rump patch in the Yellow-backed Tanager male. 3. Observe the yellow throat in the Yellow-backed Tanager male. 4. Note the olive-green and yellow plumage in female Yellow-backed Tanagers. 5. Consider the canopy habitat and presence in mixed-species flocks for Yellow-backed Tanagers.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small tanagers, with no significant size difference noted.

Plumage

The Sulphur-rumped Tanager is primarily dark with a bright sulphur-yellow rump, whereas the Yellow-backed Tanager male is black above with a yellow lower back and rump patch, and a yellow throat. Females of the Yellow-backed Tanager are olive-green above and yellow below.

Behaviour

The Yellow-backed Tanager is often seen in mixed-species flocks in the canopy, while specific behavioral notes for the Sulphur-rumped Tanager are less detailed.

Habitat

The Yellow-backed Tanager is typically found in the canopy of tall forests. Habitat details for the Sulphur-rumped Tanager are not specified but are likely similar as both belong to the same family.