Brown-headed Barbet look-alikes
Psilopogon zeylanicus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Brown-headed Barbet. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Coppersmith Barbet
Psilopogon haemacephalus
Key differences
The Coppersmith Barbet is smaller, has a bright red forehead and breast patch, and lacks the extensive brown on the head and streaking on the throat. Its call is a more metallic 'took-took-took'.
White-cheeked Barbet
Psilopogon viridis
Key differences
The White-cheeked Barbet (found in southern India) has a prominent white cheek patch and a black stripe through the eye, contrasting with its green head. It lacks the brown head and streaked throat of the Brown-headed Barbet.
Lineated Barbet
Psilopogon lineatus
Key differences
The Lineated Barbet (found in northeastern India and Southeast Asia) has a pale, streaked head and neck, but the streaking is typically finer and extends further down the breast, and the overall head color is paler, often yellowish-white, not distinctly brown. Its bill is also typically paler and more yellowish.
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