The Chocó vireo is a species of bird in the family Vireonidae that was discovered by Paul Salaman in 1991 and described in 1996. It is found in western Colombia and has recently been found in north-west Ecuador. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Chocó biogeographic region
Typical Environment
Occurs on the humid western Andean slopes of Colombia extending into north-western Ecuador. It inhabits subtropical to lower montane evergreen forests, often along ridgelines, steep slopes, and well-forested gullies. The species uses mature forest but may also appear in tall secondary growth and forest edges if canopy structure remains intact. It typically forages in the mid-story to upper canopy within dense, mossy, epiphyte-laden habitats.
Altitude Range
600–1400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Discovered in 1991 and described in 1996, the Chocó vireo is a little-known member of the Vireonidae restricted to the humid slopes of the western Andes. It is tied to the Chocó biogeographic region of western Colombia and north-west Ecuador. The species is threatened primarily by deforestation and habitat fragmentation, and it often travels in mixed-species flocks which can aid detection.
Temperament
alert, often secretive in dense foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, frequently joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Breeding pairs are territorial and likely build a small cup nest suspended in shrubs or slender branches. Clutch size is presumed small, typical of vireos.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of short, clear phrases and whistles delivered at measured intervals, reminiscent of other vireos but softer. Calls include sharp chips and scolding notes that carry through the mid-canopy.
