White-lined Tanager vs Scarlet-rumped Tanager

In short

The White-lined Tanager male is distinguished by its black plumage with white underwing coverts visible in flight, while the Scarlet-rumped Tanager male has a striking scarlet patch on its rump. Females of both species differ in coloration, with the White-lined Tanager female being rufous brown and the Scarlet-rumped Tanager female showing variable gray and yellow tones.

Identification tips

1. Look for the white underwing coverts in flight for White-lined Tanager males. 2. Check for the scarlet rump in Scarlet-rumped Tanager males. 3. Note the rufous brown female of the White-lined Tanager versus the variable gray and yellow female of the Scarlet-rumped Tanager. 4. Observe habitat preferences: White-lined Tanagers near water and Scarlet-rumped Tanagers in second growth.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized tanagers.

Plumage

The male White-lined Tanager is black with white underwing coverts, visible in flight, whereas the male Scarlet-rumped Tanager has a black body with a bright scarlet rump. Female White-lined Tanagers are rufous brown, while female Scarlet-rumped Tanagers vary from gray and dusky yellow to gray, yellow, and orangish.

Behaviour

Both species are often found in pairs or loose flocks. The White-lined Tanager is known for its fast contact calls, while the Scarlet-rumped Tanager forms social breeding pairs and does not defend territories.

Habitat

White-lined Tanagers are found in open forests and edges, often near water, across a wide range from Costa Rica to northern Argentina. Scarlet-rumped Tanagers are common at forest edges, clearings, and second growth, primarily in Central America.

Voice

The White-lined Tanager is noted for its fast contact calls. Specific vocal differences for the Scarlet-rumped Tanager are not detailed, but both species are vocal.