White Bellbird vs Bare-throated Bellbird
Procnias albus versus Procnias nudicollis
Play a quiz with White Bellbird and Bare-throated Bellbird
White Bellbird
Bare-throated Bellbird
In short
The White Bellbird and Bare-throated Bellbird are both striking members of the Cotingidae family, but they can be distinguished by their throat and plumage features. The White Bellbird male is entirely white with a distinctive black wattle on its forehead, while the Bare-throated Bellbird male has a bare, blue throat and greenish upperparts. Both species are known for their loud calls, but the White Bellbird's call is notably the loudest bird call recorded.
Identification tips
1. Look for the black wattle on the White Bellbird's forehead. 2. Note the bare, blue throat of the Bare-throated Bellbird. 3. Listen for the extremely loud call of the White Bellbird. 4. Consider the habitat: montane for White Bellbird, lowland for Bare-throated Bellbird.
Size
Both species are similar in size, with robust bodies typical of bellbirds.
Plumage
Male White Bellbirds are entirely white with a prominent black wattle on the forehead. In contrast, male Bare-throated Bellbirds have a bare, blue throat and greenish upperparts. Females of both species are less distinct and more difficult to differentiate, typically having more subdued coloration.
Behaviour
Both species exhibit similar behavior, often perching conspicuously in the canopy to call.
Habitat
White Bellbirds are typically found in montane forests, while Bare-throated Bellbirds inhabit lowland and foothill forests, often in more open areas.
Voice
The White Bellbird is famous for its extremely loud call, which is considered the loudest bird call. The Bare-throated Bellbird also has a loud call, but it is not as intense as the White Bellbird's.