Red-eyed Vireo
Vireo olivaceus
The Red-eyed Vireo is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen during the autumn months, and is more likely to be spotted in the southern and western regions of the country. It is a small American songbird that is somewhat warbler-like in appearance, but not closely related to the New World warblers.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Red-eyed Vireo in the field.
The Red-eyed Vireo can be identified by its grey-brown upperparts, white underparts, and distinctive red eye, as well as its white wing bars and white outer tail feathers.
The Red-eyed Vireo is slightly smaller than a Robin, but larger than a Goldcrest.
The male Red-eyed Vireo has a grey-brown back, wings, and tail, with white underparts and a distinctive red eye, with a grey cap on top of its head.
The female Red-eyed Vireo is similar to the male, with the same grey-brown and white plumage, although the colours may be slightly duller.
The Red-eyed Vireo's call is a sharp, repetitive "chick" or "tweet" sound, while its song is a series of short, musical phrases.
The Red-eyed Vireo is an active and agile bird, often seen flitting between trees as it forages for insects and spiders, and has a distinctive, bouncing flight style.
The Red-eyed Vireo can be confused with the Warblers, but can be distinguished by its red eye, grey cap, and white wing bars, as well as its more subdued colouration and different beak shape.
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