Tui vs South Island Kokako

The South Island Kokako is distinguished by its prominent orange wattles and mostly dark blue-grey plumage, while the Tui lacks these wattles and has a more iridescent plumage with a distinctive white throat tuft. Both species are medium-sized forest birds, but their vocalizations and specific plumage details can help in identification.

Look for the orange wattles on the South Island Kokako, absent in the Tui. Note the iridescent plumage and white throat tuft on the Tui. Listen for the duet singing of the Kokako, especially at sunrise.

Both species are medium-sized forest passerines, but specific size differences are not detailed.

The South Island Kokako has a mostly dark blue-grey plumage with a black mask and orange wattles, while the Tui has an iridescent plumage with a distinctive white throat tuft.

The South Island Kokako's song is a loud 30-second series of rich notes, often sung in duets, while the Tui's vocalizations are not detailed here but are known for their complex and varied calls.