Red-eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus)

The Red-eyed Vireo, like many of the vireos, is often high in the tree tops. They are probably heard more often than seen, although they can be one of the most numerous birds in forests of the eastern United States. Males will often sing their song repeatedly and nonstop for hours at a time, leading to their nickname of the "preacher bird".

Habitat

Uses deciduous and mixed forest during the summer breeding season, although they can also occasionally be found in conifer forests. Within these habitats, they are most often found along forest edges and clearings. They also are sometimes found in isolated prairie groves.

Diet

Primarily feeds on insects, especially during the summer months. Will also feed on berries and small fruits.

Behavior

Moves through foliage both by climbing through branches and foliage or by making short flights and hovering, capturing insects both while perched or hovering.

Nesting

June and July. The nest of a Red-eyed Vireo is a small cut built of grasses, bark strips, weed stems, small rootlets, and spider webs, placed in the fork of a small branch. The female lays between 3 and 5 eggs, and she alone incubates them. When the eggs hatch, both parents help tend to the young, who leave the nest after about 12 days.

Song

Short whistled phrases separated by deliberate pauses. Click to hear Red-eyed Vireo song.

Migration

Summers throughout much of the U.S. except for the southwestern quarter of the country. Also summers throughout much of southern and western Canada. Winters in South America.

Interactive eBird Map

Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Red-eyed Vireo sightings

Similar Species

Black-whiskered Vireo , Yellow-green Vireo (neither found in South Dakota)

Conservation Status

Numbers are probably much lower than historical levels, but appear to currently be stable or may even be increasing. They are found over a wide geographic range, and are common in many areas. The IUCN lists the Red-eyed Vireo as a species of "Least Concern" .

Photo Information

September 7th, 2007 - Newton Hills State Park, South Dakota - Terry Sohl