Painted Bunting look-alikes
Passerina ciris
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Painted Bunting. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Indigo Bunting
Passerina cyanea
Key differences
Male Indigo Buntings are entirely deep blue (appearing black in poor light), lacking the green and red of the Painted Bunting. Female Indigo Buntings are duller brown with faint streaking, whereas female Painted Buntings are unstreaked and distinctly greenish-yellow.
Lazuli Bunting
Passerina amoena
Key differences
Male Lazuli Buntings have a blue head and back, white belly, and a distinct orange-brown breast band. They lack the green back and red underparts of the Painted Bunting. Female Lazuli Buntings are duller brown-gray with a hint of blue on the rump and tail, and a buffy breast, differing from the greenish-yellow female Painted Bunting.
Varied Bunting
Passerina versicolor
Key differences
Male Varied Buntings are mostly dark purplish-blue with a red nape and shoulder patch, lacking the distinct green back and bright red underparts of the Painted Bunting. Female Varied Buntings are dull brown, lacking the greenish-yellow coloration of female Painted Buntings.
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