ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Warbling Vireo

Warbling Vireo

Photo by Joni Sullivan

The Vireo family is a small group of forest dwelling, sparrow-sized birds. They are plainly colored with most having white underparts. The bill is rather stout compared to that of warblers. Vireos feed by gleaning insects from tree leaves. Although rather sluggish birds, they are very persistent singers.

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Warbling Vireo

Vireo gilvus

At-a-Glance

• Incubation: 12 days

• Clutch Size: 3-5 eggs

• Young Fledge: 16 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: insects and fruit

Description
The warbling vireo is similar to the red-eyed vireo. It has olive green upperparts, white underparts, and a white eyebrow.

Habitat and Habits
Many species of birds are intimately associated with certain plants, and in the case of the warbling vireo, it is the Eastern cottonwood tree. This vireo sings incessantly from high in the treetops of deciduous woodlands.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Nests are placed high in trees in the fork of a branch. The eggs are white with brown spots.