Western Tanager look-alikes
Piranga ludoviciana
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Western Tanager. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Summer Tanager
Piranga rubra
Key differences
Male Summer Tanagers are entirely rose-red with no black on the wings or tail, and have a paler bill. Female Summer Tanagers are duller yellow-orange overall, lacking the distinct wing bars of the Western Tanager female.
Scarlet Tanager
Piranga olivacea
Key differences
Male Scarlet Tanagers are brilliant scarlet red with black wings and tail, but lack the red head and yellow body of the Western Tanager. They also lack the prominent wing bars. Female Scarlet Tanagers are yellowish-green with dark wings, but typically lack the distinct yellow and white wing bars of the Western Tanager female.
Flame-colored Tanager
Piranga bidentata
Key differences
Male Flame-colored Tanagers have a more orange-red head and underparts, with a streaked back and two prominent white wing bars. They are primarily found in Mexico and Central America, with only rare occurrences in the US.
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