Vireo crassirostris
The Thick-billed Vireo (Vireo crassirostris) is a charismatic small passerine, measuring 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 in) in length and weighing 10-15 g (0.35-0.53 oz), with a wingspan typically ranging 21-23 cm (8.3-9.1 in). Its plumage is characterized by olive-green upperparts, contrasting yellowish flanks, and a clean whitish belly. Key identification marks include two prominent white wing bars and distinctive yellow lores and eye-rings, forming a 'spectacled' appearance around its eye. True to its ...
Primarily inhabits dry scrub, coastal coppice, broadleaf evergreen forest edges, and secondary growth at low to moderate elevations throughout its island range.
Feeds predominantly on insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, which it gleans from foliage; also consumes small berries and fruits, especially outside the breeding season.
This diurnal species is an active forager, primarily gleaning insects from the leaves and branches of the understory and mid-story vegetation. Males are highly territorial during the breeding season, defending their patch with persistent, emphatic songs. Thick-billed Vireos are typically monogamo...
The Thick-billed Vireo is largely resident across its core distribution in the northern Caribbean. Its primary breeding range encompasses the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands, and the Cayman Islands. Subspecies are found across specific islands, such as *V. c. cubensis* in Cuba (including th...
Least Concern
- Its common name, 'Thick-billed Vireo,' directly refers to its noticeably robust bill, a key identifier among Caribbean vireos. - Despite its relatively small size, its song is remarkably loud and persistent, a common sound in its Bahamian and Caribbean habitats. - The Thick-billed Vireo has sev...