White-cheeked Antbird vs Chestnut-crested Antbird

In short

The White-cheeked Antbird and Chestnut-crested Antbird are both members of the antbird family, but they can be distinguished by their head markings and habitat preferences. The White-cheeked Antbird has a distinctive white cheek patch, while the Chestnut-crested Antbird features a chestnut crest. Both species are often found near army ant swarms but in different regions.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white cheek patch on the White-cheeked Antbird. 2. Observe the chestnut crest on the Chestnut-crested Antbird. 3. Note the habitat: White-cheeked is more widespread in lowland forests, while Chestnut-crested is more localized in terra firme forests. 4. Both species are often seen near army ant swarms.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small to medium-sized antbirds.

Plumage

The White-cheeked Antbird has a white cheek patch that contrasts with its darker head, while the Chestnut-crested Antbird is notable for its chestnut-colored crest. Both have otherwise similar dark plumage.

Behaviour

Both species follow army ant swarms to feed on insects flushed out by the ants, a common behavior among antbirds.

Habitat

The White-cheeked Antbird is typically found in lowland tropical forests, while the Chestnut-crested Antbird is more restricted to certain Amazonian regions, often in terra firme forests.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for field differentiation between these two species, but both have typical antbird calls.