White-shouldered Tanager vs Fulvous-crested Tanager

In short

The White-shouldered Tanager is distinguished by its jet black male with prominent white shoulders, while the Fulvous-crested Tanager lacks these white markings. Females of both species differ significantly in coloration, with the White-shouldered Tanager female showing an olive-green back and yellow belly, compared to the Fulvous-crested Tanager's less distinct female plumage.

Identification tips

• Look for the white shoulder patches on male White-shouldered Tanagers.
• Note the olive-green back and yellow belly of female White-shouldered Tanagers.
• Listen for the short, high, rising notes of the White-shouldered Tanager.

Plumage

Male White-shouldered Tanagers are jet black with obvious white shoulders. Females have an olive-green back, yellow belly, gray head, and whitish throat. Fulvous-crested Tanagers do not have the white shoulder markings and their females are less distinctly colored.

Behaviour

Both species forage in flocks at midlevels, subcanopy, and lower growth, gleaning and fluttering for insects and small fruit.

Voice

White-shouldered Tanagers have a series of short, high, rising notes that are constant but easily overlooked.