White-throated Thrush vs Sooty Thrush

The White-throated Thrush is best identified by its distinctive white 'collar' across the upper chest, contrasting with its otherwise gray and brown plumage. The Sooty Thrush, in contrast, is primarily blackish with a yellow bill and orange-yellow legs, and features whitish irides. These differences in plumage are the most reliable field marks for distinguishing between the two species.

Look for the white 'collar' on the White-throated Thrush, which is absent in the Sooty Thrush. Note the blackish plumage and yellow bill of the Sooty Thrush, especially in males.

White-throated Thrush has a white 'collar' across the upper chest, with plumage varying from gray to brown. Sooty Thrush is predominantly blackish, with males having a yellow bill and orange-yellow legs, and females appearing more brownish.

White-throated Thrush inhabits humid forests of foothills and mountains, often found in coffee plantations and suburban gardens. Sooty Thrush is found at higher elevations, foraging mainly on bare ground.