An extremely rare vireo to southern British Columbia. Uncommon breeding bird in the extreme northeast of the Province and appears extremely dedicated to migrating to the east of the Rockies. Incredibly, two records for the checklist area are currently held. There are no other documented records for this species in the Lower Mainland, and, for that matter, the entire southen half of B.C.! Winters in Central America. Feeds mostly on insects but some berries will also be taken.

Similar species:
Warbling Vireo is the most similar species. To increase the challenge, our Warbling Vireos in the west tend to be brighter with darker caps which causes some individuals to appear more like a Philadelphia Vireo. Philadelphia Vireo has a strong dark cap, a dark line through the eye which makes the white eyebrow appear more well defined. Yellow underparts are variable but is strongest on the throat and breast. Structurally, the Philadelphia Vireo appears shorter tailed, shorter billed and with a rounded head compared to Warbling Vireo. In contrast, on even the brightest Warbling Vireo, any yellow on the breast or throat will be paler than on the sides. Head markings are not as defined which makes the white eyebrow appear more expansive. (see photos below)

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Kaufman, K, (1990)

Back to Species List
Back to Top
Back to Home