What specific feature distinguishes the Western Kingbird's dark tail from Cassin's Kingbird's?
Answer
Conspicuous white edging on the outer feathers
The tail structure is a critical element for distinguishing the Western Kingbird (*T. verticalis*) from the closely related Cassin's Kingbird. While both birds have dark tails, the Western Kingbird's dark tail feathers are distinctly bordered by conspicuous white edging, specifically present only on the outer edges of the outermost feathers. In contrast, the Cassin's Kingbird's tail is described as being nearly entirely black, lacking this characteristic white border. When the Western Kingbird fans its tail during flight maneuvers or display, this white edging flashes prominently, making it a dependable, if light-dependent, field mark.
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