The white-eyed vireo is a small songbird of the family Vireonidae.
Region
Eastern North America and Caribbean
Typical Environment
Breeds widely across the eastern and southeastern United States, from the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest south to Florida and Texas. Winters in the southeastern U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and parts of Central America, with some populations resident along the Gulf Coast and in Florida. It occupies dense shrubby thickets, second-growth woodlands, forest edges, and overgrown fields, often near water. In winter it also uses coastal scrub and mangroves.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-eyed vireo is a small songbird of the family Vireonidae, named for the striking white iris of adults. It favors dense, brushy habitats where it sings persistent, scolding phrases that can make it easier to hear than to see. Pairs build a neat, hanging cup nest bound with spider silk and plant fibers. Juveniles have dark eyes that gradually turn white as they mature.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense cover
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs during the breeding season, defending small territories with persistent song. The nest is a suspended cup placed in a forked twig in dense shrubs, constructed with grasses, plant fibers, and spider silk. Generally monogamous, with both parents feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A brisk, scolding series of short, separated phrases often rendered as mnemonic patterns like “quick, give me a drink.” Calls include sharp chips and chatters delivered from concealed perches. Males sing frequently and consistently during the breeding season.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with gray tones on the head, whitish underparts with yellow-washed flanks, and two bold white wingbars. Adults show a crisp yellow spectacle around a pale iris and a clean white throat.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, leafhoppers, and spiders gleaned from foliage. It occasionally hover-gleans or makes short sallies to snatch prey. In fall and winter it supplements its diet with small fruits and berries.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense shrubs, vine tangles, and low tree canopies, especially along edges, overgrown fields, and riparian thickets. In winter it also uses coastal scrub and mangroves where fruit and insects are available.
