The Philadelphia vireo is a small North American songbird in the vireo family (Vireonidae). "Vireo" is a Latin word referring to a green migratory bird, perhaps the female golden oriole, possibly the European greenfinch. The specific philadelphicus is for the city of Philadelphia.
Region
North and Central America
Typical Environment
Breeds in northern North America, especially in mixed deciduous and boreal-edge woodlands with aspen, birch, willow, and poplar. During migration it moves through the northeastern and central United States, frequenting forest edges, parks, and riparian corridors. In winter it inhabits lowland and foothill forests, second-growth, and shaded plantations across Mexico and Central America. It forages mostly in the mid to upper canopy wherever leafy cover is available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the Philadelphia vireo rarely breeds near Philadelphia; it mostly passes through the northeastern United States during migration. It breeds across the boreal and mixed forests of Canada and the northern U.S., then winters in Mexico and Central America. Its song closely resembles that of the Red-eyed Vireo but is softer and more burry, which can make field identification challenging.
South Padre Island - Texas
In San Jose, Costa Rica, on 7 March 2024.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Pairs defend small territories on the breeding grounds, nesting in shrubs or low trees in semi-open woodland. Outside the breeding season they often join mixed-species flocks while foraging through the canopy. The cup nest is usually suspended in a fork, and both parents assist in feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A series of short, burry, sweet whistled phrases delivered in quick succession. Similar to Red-eyed Vireo but softer, less emphatic, and often with more slurred notes. Calls include soft chips and squeaky notes.
