Vireo vicinior
The Grey Vireo (*Vireo vicinior*) is a subtly distinctive, medium-sized songbird of the arid American Southwest and Mexico, measuring approximately 12-14 cm (4.7-5.5 inches) in length with a wingspan of about 20-22 cm and weighing 8-12 grams. Its plumage is uniformly plain gray above and whitish below, punctuated by a conspicuous white eye-ring that gives it a 'spectacled' appearance, and faint, often indistinct wing bars. A relatively short, stout bill and pale legs complete its understated ...
Primarily inhabits arid and semi-arid scrublands, especially pinyon-juniper, oak-juniper, and high desert sagebrush communities, typically at elevations between 1,200 to 2,100 meters (4,000-7,000 feet).
Feeds predominantly on insects and other arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, cicadas, and spiders, gleaned from foliage. Occasionally supplements its diet with small berries and fruits in late summer and fall.
The Grey Vireo is a diurnal, active gleaner, often moving slowly and methodically through the dense foliage of shrubs and small trees. Its most characteristic behavior is a frequent, deliberate tail-wagging, unique among North American vireos, which aids in identification. Males are highly vocal ...
The Grey Vireo's breeding range extends across the arid southwestern United States, encompassing southeastern California, Nevada, Utah, western Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, western Texas, and extreme western Oklahoma. During the non-breeding season, these vireos migrate south, primarily winteri...
Least Concern
- The Grey Vireo is the only vireo species in North America that habitually wags its tail, much like a gnatcatcher, a behavior crucial for field identification. - Despite its plain plumage, its distinctive, deliberate two-parted song, often described as 'chew-whip, chew-whip', is a key identifier...