Yellow-throated Toucan vs Keel-billed Toucan

In short

The Yellow-throated Toucan and Keel-billed Toucan are both large, colorful toucans, but they can be distinguished by their bill coloration and size. The Yellow-throated Toucan has a mostly black bill with a yellow throat, while the Keel-billed Toucan has a vibrant, multicolored bill. Both species share similar habitats but have distinct vocalizations.

Identification tips

1. Bill Color: Look for the multicolored bill of the Keel-billed Toucan. 2. Size: Note the larger size of the Yellow-throated Toucan. 3. Vocalization: Listen for the yelping call of the Yellow-throated Toucan versus the croaking of the Keel-billed Toucan. 4. Location: Consider geographic range; Keel-billed is more northern.

Size

The Yellow-throated Toucan is generally larger than the Keel-billed Toucan.

Plumage

Yellow-throated Toucan has a black body with a bright yellow throat and chest, and a mostly black bill. The Keel-billed Toucan features a black body with a yellow face and throat, but its bill is strikingly multicolored with green, orange, and red hues.

Behaviour

Both species are social and often seen in pairs or small groups, foraging in the canopy.

Habitat

Both species inhabit tropical forests, but the Yellow-throated Toucan is more widespread in South America, while the Keel-billed Toucan is found from southern Mexico to northern Colombia.

Voice

The Yellow-throated Toucan has a distinctive yelping call, while the Keel-billed Toucan produces a frog-like croak.