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Indian Black Lored Tit look-alikes

Machlolophus xanthogenys aplonotus

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Several birds can be mistaken for the Indian Black Lored Tit. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.

Birds to compare

Himalayan Black-lored Tit

Machlolophus xanthogenys xanthogenys

Key differences

The nominate subspecies, found in the Himalayas, has a more extensive yellow wash on the flanks and often a slightly different shade of yellow. The 'aplonotus' subspecies (Indian Black Lored Tit) is generally brighter yellow on the underparts and has a more restricted range to peninsular India.

Green-backed Tit

Parus monticolus

Key differences

The Green-backed Tit has a blue-grey back, a black eye-stripe, and a white cheek patch, lacking the prominent black crest and bright yellow cheeks of the Indian Black Lored Tit. Its black central stripe is also narrower.

Great Tit

Parus major

Key differences

The Great Tit has a black head and throat, white cheek patches, and a prominent black central stripe on yellow underparts, but it lacks the distinctive black crest of the Indian Black Lored Tit. Its back is olive-green, but the head pattern is distinctly different.

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