Vireolanius melitophrys
The Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo (*Vireolanius melitophrys*) is a strikingly colored songbird of the family Vireonidae, captivating birders with its vibrant plumage and robust, shrike-like bill. Measuring about 17-19 cm (6.7-7.5 in) in length and weighing 30-40 g (1.1-1.4 oz), it boasts a distinctive appearance: a blue-gray crown, a broad black mask extending from the lore to the ear-coverts, bright yellow underparts, and rich chestnut flanks. Its heavy, hooked bill, characteristic of the genu...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane evergreen and pine-oak forests, as well as cloud forests. It typically resides at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 meters (3,300 to 9,800 feet) above sea level.
The Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo primarily feeds on insects and spiders, gleaning them from foliage and bark in the forest canopy. Occasionally, small fruits may supplement their diet.
Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireos are diurnal and spend most of their time actively foraging in the mid to upper canopy of tall trees. They are largely insectivorous, employing a gleaning strategy, carefully searching leaves and branches for insects and spiders. While generally observed singly or in p...
The Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo is a resident species found exclusively in the highlands of Mexico and western Guatemala. Its distribution in Mexico spans across the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, extending through states such as México, Morelos, Puebla, Veracruz, Hidalgo, Oaxaca, and Guerrero. It ...
Least Concern
- Despite its name, the Chestnut-sided Shrike-Vireo is not closely related to true shrikes (family Laniidae); its 'shrike-like' characteristic refers to its robust, hooked bill, an adaptation for handling large insect prey. - This species is a high-elevation specialist, rarely venturing below 1,0...