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Costa Rica Bird Id Help please (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter jtwood
- Start date
birdboybowley
Well-known member.....apparently so ;)
Tropical Kingbird
lockbreeze926
Well-known member
Is there something in particular in the photo that makes you opt for the Tropical, birdboy? Or is is a matter of range?
I am not doubting your ID, but I find this can be a tricky family.
I am not doubting your ID, but I find this can be a tricky family.
Chris Benesh
So much work, so little time...so let's go birding
Hi John,
ruling out the similar Couch's by range, the combination of a substantial bill, short primary projection, and the fact that the wings and tail are close in color (vs. much blacker tail) all support TK.
Chris
Peter C.
...just zis guy, you know?
Just as a matter of interest, Chris, what DOES have a contrasting tail? (in the context of kingbird-like critters).
Peter C.
Chris Benesh
So much work, so little time...so let's go birding
Hi Peter,
In the Costa Rican context, it is Western Kingbird, which has a black tail that is noticeably darker than the wings. Elsewhere, Cassin's Kingbird also fits the bill, though the tail is slightly browner than a Western.
Chris
Peter C.
...just zis guy, you know?
Thanks Chris, that's useful.
I was just in west Mexico, and saw many Tropicals - but I imagine some Westerns might have been there undetected (if not calling); lots of other West NA migrants were around. I'll remember to try to get a look at their uppers next time!
Peter C.