Clearly you believe this is not Abbott's! As you are aware the two species are very similar and without a comparison of size, bill size, tail length it is probably difficult to come down on the actual species. I have scanned the internet (I find field guides are sometimes a bit misleading) and there are a number of photos of "Abbott's with similar size tail, bill and markings to my bird. Of course, there are also lots of shots of Buff-Breasted which display similar characteristics to my bird! Who is to say that their identification is correct!
I originally concluded Abbott's but am willing to be convinced otherwise.
I have looked through my bird sightings for the 2nd April and I had both Abbotts and Buff Breasted on the same day but not at the same time. Abbotts was early morning and Buff Breasted later afternoon.
I have ascertained that you are probably more experienced than I with regard to avifauna from this area though I would add that my guide for the day was Susan Myers, and, though not always correct (Who is?), is a well respected ornithologist.
Michael, I did come across one of your photos of an obvious Abbott's at Cat Tien! I make the separation of the two species as they are found in S Annam by looking at two things principally, the bill strength, and the tail length. You are right! I am convinced that this particular photo is of the Trichastoma.
I agree about the utility of most field guides, however, I long ago compiled a photoDB of most bird species. I find it much easier to discriminate between similar birds by flipping through lots of comp photos, than I do trying to use field guides where much is left to the immagination, and, of course, to the bravura of the individual illustrators!
I am currently updating Pellorneidae which is the reason I happened to come across your photos.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.