How does the Western Kingbird's throat coloration compare when distinguishing it from the Cassin's Kingbird?

Answer

The Western Kingbird has a bright white throat contrasting its pale gray head.

Accurate field identification between the Western Kingbird and its eastern relative, the Cassin's Kingbird, often hinges on subtle head and throat patterns, especially in overlapping ranges. The Western Kingbird is distinguished by having a pale gray head that stands out sharply against a bright white throat, forming a distinct white bib. In contrast, the Cassin's Kingbird exhibits a darker head coloration, appearing almost black, and its throat is gray, lacking the pronounced white bib seen in the Western species. This difference in the throat/head demarcation is a critical field mark for birdwatchers needing to separate the two visually similar, aggressive flycatchers.

How does the Western Kingbird's throat coloration compare when distinguishing it from the Cassin's Kingbird?

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