Philadelphia Vireo (Vireo philadelphicus)
 
Status in the Checklist Area - (2) Accidental
     
 
Information

An extremely rare vireo to southern British Columbia. Uncommon breeding bird in the extreme northeast of the Province and appears extremely dedicated to migrating to the east of the Rockies. Incredibly, two records for the checklist area are currently held. There are no other documented records for this species in the Lower Mainland, and, for that matter, the entire southen half of B.C.! Winters in Central America. Feeds mostly on insects but some berries will also be taken.

Similar species:
Warbling Vireo is the most similar species. To increase the challenge, our Warbling Vireos in the west tend to be brighter with darker caps which causes some individuals to appear more like a Philadelphia Vireo. Philadelphia Vireo has a strong dark cap, a dark line through the eye which makes the white eyebrow appear more well defined. Yellow underparts are variable but is strongest on the throat and breast. Structurally, the Philadelphia Vireo appears shorter tailed, shorter billed and with a rounded head compared to Warbling Vireo. In contrast, on even the brightest Warbling Vireo, any yellow on the breast or throat will be paler than on the sides. Head markings are not as defined which makes the white eyebrow appear more expansive. (see photos below)

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Kaufman, K, (1990
)

     
Noteworthy Data
 
Date
Location
Source(s)
Comments
10-Nov-2010 Island 22 Regional Park, Chilliwack C. McDonald Observed over an hour and photographed. Feeding actively with a flock of Black-capped Chickadees and kinglets.
22-Sept-2007 Island 22 Regional Park, Chilliwack G. Gadsden Viewed and photographed at close range while feeding in mixed flock of Black-capped Chickadees.
 
Photographs
           
           
               
                   
                   
       
       
 
Audio and Video    
None available
 

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