The golden vireo is a species of bird in the family Vireonidae. It is endemic to Mexico. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry forests and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Western Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Pacific slope of Mexico from Nayarit and Jalisco south through Michoacán and Guerrero into Oaxaca. It favors subtropical and tropical dry forests, semi-deciduous woodland, thorn-scrub edges, and riparian groves. The species also uses second-growth and wooded canyons, especially where a mix of dense shrubs and taller trees provides foraging and nesting sites. It is typically found from the lowlands into foothill zones.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The golden vireo is a bright yellow vireo endemic to western Mexico, often moving methodically through foliage as it gleans insects. It builds a neat, hanging cup nest suspended from forked twigs. Although adaptable to second-growth, it depends on intact dry forest mosaics, making it sensitive to extensive habitat conversion.
Temperament
active and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining small territories during the breeding season. Pairs build a suspended cup nest in a forked branch, and both sexes likely share incubation and brood care. Outside breeding, it may join mixed-species flocks while foraging through mid-canopy foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, sweet, whistled phrases delivered in measured tempo, often repeated with slight variation. Calls include soft chips and a sharper scold when alarmed.
Plumage
Bright golden-yellow overall with slightly olive-tinged back and wings; feathers smooth and unspotted with faint, pale wing bars.
Diet
Primarily gleans caterpillars, beetles, leafhoppers, and other small arthropods from leaves and twigs. It occasionally sallies short distances to snatch prey in the air. Small berries may be taken seasonally, especially in the nonbreeding period.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid- to upper canopy of dry forest, second-growth, and along forest edges and riparian thickets. Frequently works methodically through dense foliage and vine tangles.
