Black-whiskered Vireo
NameBlack-whiskered Vireo
Common NameBlack-whiskered Vireo
Scientific NameVireo altiloquus
FamilyVireonidae
Wingspan (cm)24
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)16.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-green, contrasting with whitish underparts that may show a faint yellowish wash on the flanks and undertail coverts. The head features a prominent white supercilium bordered by a dark eye-line and a dark lateral crown stripe. A key identifying feature is the dark malar stripe, often referred to as a 'whisker', extending from the gape. The bill is relatively stout and pale.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its persistent, monotonous, and repetitive song, often described as a series of short, slurred phrases. The song can be likened to 'here I am, where are you?' or 'chip-chew-wee-o'. Calls include a harsh 'churr' or 'vreeo'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida), throughout the Caribbean islands, and along the northern coast of South America. It migrates to winter in northern South America, particularly in the Amazon basin.
Identifying FeaturesDark 'whisker' (malar) stripe, White supercilium with dark eye-line and crown stripe, Olive-green back and whitish belly, Pale, relatively stout bill, Persistent, repetitive song
Description
The Black-whiskered Vireo is a medium-sized songbird characterized by its olive-green upperparts and whitish underparts. It is most easily identified by the distinctive dark 'whisker' marks on its face and its persistent, repetitive song. This species forages actively in the canopy for insects and fruits.
